Beyond that Beautiful face

After a gap of 21 years, India's Harnaaz Sandhu has brought back the "Miss Universe" title. While as a nation we celebrated and took pride in this achievement, very few of us tried to look at what lies beyond a beautiful face? Given the generational shift, I hope our society will not limit her name to quiz books alone. I wish 21st century India would delve deep to reflect and understand that beauty pageants are assessing more than just the external looks. During multiple rounds, the contestants are evaluated on strict parameters. They prepare for it with sheer discipline, being conscious of every routine activity like eating, talking, walking, thinking, and conducting themselves. It is not limited to taking care of physical appearance alone. While it is one of the important aspects, these contestants are self-aware women, knowing their own worth and having clarity of their life's purpose. The graceful walks and confident smiles on the ramp are only a manifestation of their brave mind and kind heart. Also, we should know about the less discussed fact that after winning, Miss Universe takes office immediately and takes on a public cause and spreads awareness about it as the ambassador for a year. Apart from this job, she receives other benefits like modelling portfolios and endorsements. Also if the winner does not fulfil her responsibility, the first runner-up can take over. That meaning "Miss Universe" is not limited to all glitzy, glamourous, and famed life but a serious appointment. She is paid and held accountable as well. Let us, therefore, appreciate all of their efforts even more. 

A woman with this glorious crown has immense power to influence young minds, especially girls. What inspiration do we draw as a society depends on our understanding of beauty contests. Harnaaz had a very strong message for the youth, to "Believe in yourself". She worked hard and earned a place on the world stage. Her concern for the environment should kindle hope among young Indian climate activists. Her smile and confidence should infuse the same in our daughters instead of making them insecure about their looks. It should rather light up their hearts and inspire them to realize their true potential. We must look beyond that beautiful face and learn to work hard and embrace ourselves. A winner like "Harnaaz Sandhu" exemplifies a well-formed and balanced personality. She is a young woman with a vision and ideas to make the world a better place. She represented our nation in the most astounding way. We cannot thank her enough for that. At the same time let us also acknowledge that she has not been crowned only for the beauty that meets our eyes, rather for what lies beyond our usual gaze.