The world of high fashion witnessed a moment of pure elegance as former Miss World and actress Manushi Chhillar graced the runway for celebrated designer Tarun Tahiliani at the prestigious Blenders Pride Fashion Tour. Looking absolutely radiant in Tahiliani’s exquisite couture, Manushi embodied the show’s theme, ‘dreamscape,’ bringing a celestial charm to the celebrated fashion event.
A Showstopper Moment with a Master Couturier
Walking the ramp is familiar territory for Manushi, but doing so for a designer she deeply respects added a special layer to the experience. Reflecting on the show, she shared her excitement: “Being part of this show, especially with Tarun—someone I truly admire—feels surreal. He’s been part of some of my most special moments, and with the theme ‘dreamscape,’ who better than Tarun to bring it to life?” Her presence on the runway wasn’t just about showcasing a beautiful garment; it was a convergence of grace, legacy, and artistic vision, making it a highlight of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour. The tour itself is known for celebrating style, substance, and identity, often providing a platform for India’s leading design talents.
The Journey: From Scalpels to Spotlight
Manushi Chhillar’s path is a fascinating narrative of transformation. Crowned Miss World in 2017, she brought the coveted title back to India after 17 years. However, her journey began in the demanding world of medical studies. “It all began when I entered medical college,” she notes. “Since then, every few years, I’ve had to start over in entirely new fields, and I’ve continuously learned, adapted, and grown.” This ability to reinvent herself, moving from medicine to pageantry and now to the silver screen and entrepreneurship, showcases her incredible adaptability and determination. She handles the weight of her achievements with poise, whether navigating the complexities of the film industry or dazzling on the fashion ramp.
Redefining Beauty and Championing Inclusivity
As someone who emerged from the world of beauty pageants, Manushi has a unique perspective on the evolving standards within the industry. She celebrates the positive shift towards greater diversity and inclusivity. “It’s inspiring to see how diversity and inclusivity have grown… Conversations around inclusivity, be it in fashion or films, have gained momentum, and that’s a significant step forward,” she observes. Manushi believes there’s no single definition of beauty and advocates for embracing individuality. “As influencers, artists, and public figures, it’s important for us to recognise that we don’t all have to fit into a single mold. Instead, we should embrace our individuality, carve our own paths, and express ourselves authentically.”
Empowering Women and Advocating for Equality
Beyond the glamour, Manushi is a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment and gender equality. She emphasizes the need to move beyond gender-based judgments in professional settings. “The most important thing is for women to not feel persecuted or feel that they are being treated differently because of their own gender… It is important to treat people as professionals and not based on what sex they are.” Her message, particularly relevant around International Women’s Day, encourages women to focus on action rather than perceived limitations: “Do not see yourselves as victims of your circumstances but focus on action. The moment you start taking steps toward your goals, progress will follow.”
Wisdom for the Aspiring and Handling Scrutiny
Having navigated competitive fields, Manushi offers pragmatic advice to young women: passion is crucial, but so is preparedness. She strongly suggests finishing education and having a safety net before diving into challenging industries like film or fashion, especially for outsiders. “You have to truly want to do it… finish your education, have something of your own before you start because it is not going to be an easy journey, and you always need something to fall back on.” On handling public scrutiny, she advises learning from criticism without letting it define you, and similarly, not letting praise inflate the ego. Staying true to oneself is key.
Also Read – En Vogue Diaries: Tarun Tahiliani’s Spectacle of Style and Innovation
Looking Ahead: Films and Entrepreneurship
Manushi Chhillar continues to expand her horizons. Fans can look forward to seeing her on screen with two film releases planned for the year and another project she’s set to begin shooting. Alongside her acting career, she’s actively involved with her sustainable beachwear brand, Dweep, and the expansion of her regenerative clinic, Soma Wellness, showcasing her multifaceted ambitions.
Her stunning appearance at the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour was more than just a fashion moment; it was a reflection of Manushi Chhillar’s journey – one marked by grace, intelligence, continuous evolution, and a commitment to using her platform for positive change.