In the world of glamour and entertainment, the Miss World pageant has served as a significant platform for aspiring young women to showcase their talent and beauty on a global scale. Over the years, many Indian women have not only represented their country with grace and poise but have also gone on to carve successful careers in the film industry. Here are ten remarkable Indian women who made a mark both as Miss World contestants and as accomplished actresses:
1. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan:
Aishwarya Rai, crowned Miss World in 1994, is perhaps one of the most recognizable faces in Indian cinema. She made her acting debut in the Tamil film “Iruvar” and went on to star in numerous Bollywood blockbusters, including “Devdas,” “Jodhaa Akbar,” and “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam.”
2. Priyanka Chopra Jonas:
Priyanka Chopra won the Miss World title in 2000 and later ventured into acting. She gained international fame with her role in the American television series “Quantico” and has since appeared in Hollywood films like “Baywatch,” “Isn’t It Romantic,” and “The White Tiger.”
3. Lara Dutta Bhupathi:
Lara Dutta was crowned Miss World in 2000, the same year as Priyanka Chopra. She transitioned into acting with the Bollywood film “Andaaz” and has since delivered notable performances in movies such as “No Entry,” “Housefull,” and “Chalo Dilli.”
4. Yukta Mookhey:
Yukta Mookhey won the Miss World title in 1999 and later pursued a career in Indian cinema. Although her acting career was relatively brief, she appeared in films like “Pyaasa” and “Katputtli.”
5. Manushi Chhillar:
Manushi Chhillar brought home the Miss World crown in 2017 and has since ventured into acting. She made her Bollywood debut in the historical drama “Prithviraj,” where she star opposite actor Akshay Kumar.
6. Diana Hayden:
Diana Hayden won the Miss World title in 1997 and subsequently appeared in a few Bollywood films, including “Tehzeeb” and “Ab Bas.”
7. Reita Faria:
Reita Faria made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win the Miss World title in 1966. Although she did not pursue acting as a full-time career, she appeared in a few Indian films during the 1960s and 1970s.
8. Sushmita Sen:
She made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win the Miss Universe title in 1994. While she did not win the Miss World title, she is still a prominent figure in Indian cinema, known for her roles in films like “Main Hoon Na,” “Biwi No. 1,” and “Aankhen.”
9. Asha Bhat:
Asha Bhat won the Miss Supranational title in 2014 and later made her acting debut in the Kannada film “Roberrt.” She is set to appear in several upcoming Indian films.
10. Nicole Faria:
Nicole Faria was crowned Miss Earth in 2010, becoming the first Indian to win the title. She made her acting debut in the Bollywood film “Yaariyan” and has since appeared in a few Indian movies and web series.
These ten Indian women have not only represented their country with grace and dignity on the global stage but have also successfully transitioned into the world of acting, leaving an indelible mark in Indian cinema. From Aishwarya Rai’s timeless beauty to Priyanka Chopra’s global influence, these former Miss World contestants continue to inspire millions with their talent and charisma, proving that beauty and brains indeed go hand in hand.