A few weeks ago, I crowned two new winners for the year 2018. It was a beautiful and nostalgic experience being back on stage and watching the wonderful women perform.
—
My reign as Miss India DC has been tremendously blissful.
I’d like to take this space to share my farewell speech.
“Good Evening All!
I am sure you’re enjoying the evening so far and the amazing performances by our talented contestants.
Let’s give them a big round of applause…these were mind-blowing performances for this evening!
I remember this day like it was yesterday. It was a life-changing moment for me.
I also remember the day when Ms. Neena Bhaskar introduced me to this pageant and how I can be a potential contestant competing amongst young upcoming and thriving talent. Right then and there, I felt something very positive in this opportunity. I promised myself, no matter if I win or lose, I’m going to have loads of fun performing, showing my talent and meeting other brilliant, smart, beautiful and talented girls. My family and friends encouraged me to give my best out here, and I truly appreciated the chance to perform on this platform.
When Ms. Neena called my name as the winner, I felt shock and happiness…that I won and that not only did I get the crown but left a lasting impression with my performance.
However, the journey to become a Miss India DC is not straightforward. It’s not just about being the prettiest-looking one or having the best dresses.
It’s about who you are, your confidence, your presentation…and moreover your attitude towards everything in life.
It took me years to hone my talent and stand where I am today. I feel proud of myself to achieve such stature at the same time nurturing positivity in criticism. Participating in the pageant was an achievement, performing on stage was a passion and winning was a dream come true. It was a chance for me to gain confidence, really appreciate myself and meet people who would help me achieve my success.
This year has been monumental for me as Miss India DC 2017 and as POOJAH GANESH…I met so many people from all walks of life and made new friends…some who are in the audience today.
The opportunities I got through winning the pageant were really great. I modeled for fashion shows, made appearances, got to work with photographers, performed music and dance in various cultural programs and presented empowerment speeches. Most importantly, I used my title to be a voice in the community – representing my identity as an Indian and the state that I was raised in, I performed and presented speeches for fundraisers for various causes such as breast cancer, empowering women and rare diseases.
The respect that I received has been incredible – I became more visible in my community and was recognized for my passion, dreams and hard work. I was a person who my peers looked up to. It has been a year of immense growth and confidence, and I take each day as a blessing.
To the girls competing tonight – whether you win the title or not, you wear the colors of the Indian and American culture on your sleeve. You just don’t turn that side of you off because it’s a part of you. So outside of this pageant, it is your duty (whether you are the winner or not) to always represent and never compromise your identity, be an active voice in your community, do good for the community, build yourself up and others, hustle to meet people and get as many opportunities and be thankful for who and what is in your life right now.
A special thanks to Ms. Neena Bhaskar and her children Ria, Armaan and Alisha for organizing the pageant, coordinating insightful and fun rehearsals/get-togethers, giving tips on how to be successful on stage and making the whole experience enjoyable. I’d also like to thank my parents and all my friends and family around the world who have been part of my journey.
Farewell, but I will always be your Miss India DC 2017, representing India and DC no matter where I go.
Me. Poojah.