In a dramatic turn of events, Rachel Gupta, the Miss Grand International 2024 titleholder from India, has chosen to renounce her crown, citing severe mistreatment and neglect by the beauty pageant organization. In a tearful YouTube confession viewed by over 1.4 million people, Gupta described her experience over the last seven months as filled with harassment, manipulation, and abandonment. She stated that instead of receiving royal treatment, she was left in a “dilapidated” house with no access to basic necessities like food, security, or even a phone. Her emotional disclosure has sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about the treatment of contestants within the international beauty pageant system.
After winning the pageant, Gupta claims that the organization forced her to sign a one-sided contract under duress, compelling her to adhere to their demands while failing to provide the promised support. She described being moved from a cramped hotel room to a rundown house situated far from the city’s amenities, which left her feeling isolated and helpless. With no access to transportation or adequate resources, Gupta relied on purchasing a phone to order fast food, leading to a decline in her health and well-being. Her struggles intensified as she highlighted the lack of concern from Miss Grand International for her basic needs, raising critical issues about the responsibilities of beauty organizations towards their titleholders.
The situation worsened as Gupta faced constant scrutiny regarding her appearance. She shared instances of being body-shamed by the organization, with representatives allegedly commenting on her weight in humiliating ways. Despite her complaints about the dire conditions and concerns for her safety, including reporting a potential robbery at her residence, Gupta felt unsupported and ignored by the MGI leadership. Her distress highlights the toxic culture she alleges exists within MGI, characterized by a focus on physical appearance over the well-being of contestants.
In response to Gupta’s allegations, Miss Grand International publicly revoked her title, claiming she failed to adhere to her responsibilities and engaged in outside projects without approval. Their statement demanded the immediate return of her crown, further complicating the already tense situation. Gupta asserts that the organization treated her not as a queen but as a mere tool for financial gain, compelling her to promote questionable products for their profit. This sentiment resonates with a growing wave of discontent among beauty pageant contestants, indicating a troubling trend of disconnection between organizations and their titleholders.
Gupta’s resignation is not an isolated case; it aligns with a broader movement among beauty pageant winners who have stepped down or faced significant challenges within their organizations. Recent departures, including the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA 2024 titleholders, highlight systemic issues such as bullying and mistreatment. Gupta’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for future beauty pageant aspirants, urging them to critically assess the organization they align with and to prioritize their mental and physical health above all.
In her poignant farewell, Gupta warned potential contestants that even winning the crown may lead to isolation without genuine support from the organization. She emphasized the irresponsibility and indifference of Miss Grand International, hoping her story empowers others to seek better opportunities in the often-glamorous yet perilous world of beauty pageants. As the beauty industry faces increasing scrutiny, Gupta’s narrative may serve as a catalyst for change, encouraging a reevaluation of how beauty pageants prioritize the welfare and dignity of their competitors.
