Introduction:
In the world of beauty pageants, Suman Rao is a name that shines brightly. Hailing from the heartland of India, this young and dynamic woman has not only made her mark in the glamour industry but has also emerged as a beacon of hope and empowerment for women across the country. Suman Rao, born on 23rd November 1998 in Aaidana village, Rajsamand District, Rajasthan, has risen from humble beginnings to achieve the title of Femina Miss India 2019 and represented India at the prestigious Miss World 2019 pageant. But her journey is more than just a story of glamour; it’s a tale of determination, passion, and her relentless advocacy for women’s rights and education.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Education:
Suman Rao’s roots trace back to the vibrant state of Rajasthan, where her father, Ratan Singh Rao, is a jeweler, and her mother, Sushila Kunwar Rao, is a homemaker. Growing up in Aaidana village, she had a modest upbringing, but her dreams were as vast as the Rajasthan deserts. When she was just a year old, her family moved to Mumbai, where her academic journey began. She completed her schooling at the Mahatma School of Academics and Sports in Navi Mumbai and, alongside her budding modeling career, pursued a degree in Chartered Accountancy from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. Fluent in both English and Hindi, Suman also held on to her mother tongue, Mewari.
The Ascent to Fame:
Suman’s tryst with the world of beauty pageants began with a simple fascination for the Miss India contest. She stumbled upon YouTube videos showcasing the competition and the incredible opportunities it offered to young women. This revelation ignited a spark within her, leading her to participate in the Miss Navi Mumbai contest in 2018, where she was crowned as the first runner-up. Undeterred by the initial setback, she set her sights higher and auditioned for the title of Femina Miss Rajasthan 2019, which she ultimately won. This victory marked the beginning of her journey on the national stage, representing the culturally rich state of Rajasthan at the Femina Miss India 2019 pageant.
The Road to Miss World:
Suman Rao’s journey to becoming Femina Miss India World was not without its challenges. At the pageant held on 15th June 2019 at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Indoor Stadium, Mumbai, she not only claimed the prestigious title but also received the ‘Miss Rampwalk’ award, a testament to her grace and poise on the stage. This win was a ticket to represent India at the Miss World 2019 pageant, held on 14th December 2019 at ExCeL London in the United Kingdom.
At the international stage, she was pitted against 111 contestants from various countries and territories, and she excelled in various segments of the competition. Suman secured third place in the ‘Top Model’ round, showcasing not just her beauty but also her confidence and charisma. Her talents shone through as she made it to the Top 27 in the ‘Talent’ segment, proving that she was more than just a pretty face.
One of the pivotal moments of her journey was winning the Head-to-Head Challenge in Group 14, earning her a spot in the Top 40 of Miss World 2019. This challenge, judged by the renowned Piers Morgan, was a testament to her wit and charm. Competing against Bangladesh, she emerged victorious, showcasing her excellence on the global stage.
Beyond Beauty: Suman Rao’s Advocacy:
What truly sets Suman Rao apart is not just her success in the world of beauty pageants but her relentless advocacy for women’s rights and education. Her ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ project, titled ‘Project Pragati,’ is a testament to her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of underprivileged women. With ‘Project Pragati,’ Suman took initiatives to empower women in tribal communities by helping them attain financial independence. She procured machines for the production of aloe vera and rose extracts, gels, and shampoo, allowing these women to manufacture products and earn a livelihood within their villages.
Suman Rao’s project received support from the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, which played a pivotal role in training women in handloom, decorative handicrafts, accessories, and jewelry making. These products, crafted by the women, are not only sold near the Jaipur City Palace but also through an online website, opening up new avenues for economic growth.
A Voice for the Voiceless:
Suman Rao’s advocacy extends beyond empowering women in rural communities. She is a vocal advocate for strengthening child protection laws in India and raising awareness about the grave issue of child sexual abuse. Her commitment to using her platform to highlight pressing societal issues is truly commendable, and she is a role model not just for aspiring models but for anyone who believes in the power of dreams and the power of women.
Suman’s Inspiring Words:
At the grand finale of Miss World 2019, Suman Rao left an indelible mark with her final words. When asked about what we should teach young girls today, her response was not just eloquent but deeply impactful. She said, “I believe we should encourage young girls to understand that their dreams aren’t limited by their gender, the society they’re in, their family, or anything else they’re born into. Instead, their dreams depend on their own abilities and aspirations. Every person is born with a unique purpose and something valuable to offer the world. We should teach girls that they possess the inner strength to accomplish whatever they set their hearts on.”
A True Inspiration:
In the end, Suman Rao is not just a beauty queen; she is a symbol of hope and empowerment. She has shown the world that beauty pageants can be platforms for social change and that a determined individual can make a significant impact. Her journey from Aaidana village in Rajasthan to the international stage is an inspiration to us all.
As we celebrate Suman Rao’s achievements and advocacy, we are reminded that dreams have no boundaries, and when coupled with determination and purpose, they can lead to remarkable outcomes. Suman Rao serves as a shining example of this fact, and her reputation as a beautiful and purpose-driven individual will keep motivating countless young girls and women to dream big and have a positive impact on the world.
Conclusion:
Suman Rao’s journey from a small village in Rajasthan to the world stage is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. Her success in the world of beauty pageants is only eclipsed by her dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of women in rural communities through ‘Project Pragati.’ She is not just a beauty queen; she is a champion for women’s rights, education, and empowerment. Suman Rao’s advocacy and achievements serve as an inspiration to all who believe in the limitless potential of women. As she continues to make India proud, she reminds us that dreams, when pursued with passion and purpose, can change the world.
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