For over six decades, Femina, India’s foremost women’s lifestyle brand,
has empowered and celebrated the aspirations of Indian women. From shaping
conversations on beauty and ambition to championing purpose-driven success
stories, the brand has consistently spotlighted women who inspire. The March
issue is no exception, featuring the reigning Femina Miss India 2024 queens –
Nikita Porwal, Rekha Pandey, and Aayushi Dholakia. Beyond their crowns, these
young women embody not only grace and elegance but also resilience, purpose,
and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Nikita Porwal, crowned Femina Miss India World 2024, hails from Ujjain,
Madhya Pradesh. A storyteller at heart, she has performed in over 60 plays and
written a 250-page script titled Krishna-Leela. Reflecting on her journey,
Nikita says, “I’ve always dreamt of representing India on the global stage,
and, when I was crowned, I was overwhelmed with gratitude, joy, and an immense
sense of fulfilment. I realise my purpose isn’t to please everyone; it is to
create a legacy. And legacies aren’t built by fitting an ideal – they’re forged
by embracing authenticity. Once I accepted this, I began to enjoy the journey.”
Rekha Pandey, Femina Miss India 2024 – 1st Runner-up, from Dadra &
Nagar Haveli, is a force for resilience and social change. Passionate about
women’s education and rural development, she believes in using her voice for
meaningful impact. Rekha’s belief in the power of giving back to society makes
her an inspiring figure, proving that beauty goes hand in hand with purpose.
Sharing her thoughts on the responsibility that comes with wearing the crown,
she says, “Winning a pageant is about using that platform to start meaningful
conversations, challenge outdated norms, and represent countless women who see
themselves in you.”
Femina Miss India 2024 – 2nd Runner-up Aayushi Dholakia, from Vadodara,
Gujarat, is a national-level dancer and mentor with a relentless spirit and a
deep commitment to personal growth. Her perseverance proves that determination
can turn dreams into reality. On her win, Aayushi remarks, “Winning the Femina
Miss India 2024 2nd Runner-up title was a full-circle moment – proof that
dreams do come true when you dedicate yourself wholeheartedly to them. I
invested in self-growth, staying open to learning, and embracing every
challenge. That process shaped me into the person I am today. Indeed, winning
Femina Miss India has been more than just the realisation of a dream – it has
been a journey of self-discovery.”
Femina has long been a platform that celebrates not just beauty, but
ambition and purpose. This March cover story is a testament to the new
generation of women who are unapologetically carving their own paths while
inspiring millions.