Picture this: a spectacular evening in Dubai where elegance meets empowerment, celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mangalorean women living in the Middle East. The grand finale of the Mangalore Diva Middle East Miss & Mrs 2025 pageant unfolded on November 1 at the luxurious Hotel Ramee Dream Downtown, leaving everyone buzzing with inspiration. But here's where it gets truly captivating—the event wasn't just about glitz; it was a heartfelt tribute to confidence, culture, and the unyielding strength of women from Tulunadu. And this is the part most people miss: how such pageants can sometimes stir up debate about whether they empower or simply spotlight appearance. Let's dive in and explore the magic that made this night unforgettable.
In a friendly and conversational tone, let's break down the highlights. The crowning ceremony was a highlight, with Ronald Colaco and Jean Colaco bestowing the titles on the triumphant winners, while the runners-up were honored by Lanchu Lal from Astra Group and Samata Amin. This beauty contest, organized by the talented Priya Fernandes of Priya Fashions, teamed up with dedicated collaborators like Dechamma Poonacha, Sabitha Carlo, and Gautham Bangera, along with key team players Pavithra Shetty and Manoj Shetty. To prepare the participants, they enjoyed two full days of enriching grooming and self-confidence workshops. Expert trainers Rhea Gopal, founder of Movementerra, guided them through movement and poise; Preeti D’Souza focused on building self-awareness, helping beginners understand how knowing oneself can boost everyday confidence; and Laxmi Sherin emphasized self-belief, even introducing the event's founding members to foster a sense of community.
The theme of the evening? A joyous celebration of beauty, poise, and talent among women from Mangalore who call the Middle East home. Contestants dazzled across three distinct rounds—Ethnic, Fusion, and Western—enthralling a lively crowd with displays of fashion, heritage, and self-assurance. Think of it as a cultural showcase where traditional Mangalorean attire blends seamlessly into modern interpretations, making it accessible even for those new to such events.
Now, onto the stars of the show—the winners! In the Mrs Category, which celebrates married women, Minu Jose took the crown, with Nayana Shetty as first runner-up and Asmitha Kotian as second. For the TIA Miss Category, spotlighting unmarried participants, Tanushree Shetty emerged victorious, followed by Shirley Crasta in first place and Cynthia D’Souza in second. These titles aren't just about winning; they symbolize personal growth, and for newcomers to pageants, it's a reminder that competition can build resilience.
The night was elevated by distinguished guests, including Dr. Ronald Colaco and Jean Colaco, Lanchu Lal (CEO of Astra Group), Dr. Bu Abdullah (Chairman of Bu Abdullah Group), and Kannan Ravi (Founder & Chairman of Kannan Ravi Group), who graced the event as chief guests. The judging panel, a mix of insightful professionals, included Meena Nirmala, Bhavana Santhosh, Siddharth Shetty, Lavita Crasta, Chaithra Shetty, Savitha Anchan, and Dr. Priyadarshin, ensuring fair evaluation in every segment.
VIP and celebrity attendees added extra sparkle: Joywin from Thumbay Institute of Aesthetic – TIA, Sharat Shet from S L Shet Diamond House, Rich Rose (the official florist), Michael from Ivory Grand, Meena Nirmala & Bhavana Santhosh from Al Inekas Beauty Salon, Resort Supplies, Gold Link, and celebrities like Roopesh Shetty, Samata Amin, and Vineet Kumar. Guests of honor Maher Al Khaja and Weincita Dias rounded out the star-studded lineup.
Hosting duties were handled expertly by Errol Edwin Goveas and Sweeny Maria D’Souza, kicking off with a breathtaking ramp walk by Deuela Patsy Paul in a gorgeous white gown crafted by Priya Fashions Boutique. Contestants paid homage to Tulunadu through their ethnic wear in the first round, transitioned into fusion styles designed by Jeevan Ghatti of Mantra – Mangaluru, and finished with Western elegance from Priya Fashions Boutique. The energy peaked with a lively dance number from Dance Central, illustrating how pageants often weave in art forms to highlight cultural diversity.
Media and support partners played crucial roles, with Daijiworld TV and Karnataka News as media collaborators, and social media partners Moms of Mangalore, VJ Dixon, and Hera Pinto spreading the word. Additional supporters included Ashwini and Mohan from Dream Destination, One More Rep, Praveen Shetty from Kudla Restaurant, New Look Salon, The Artist by Nichola Dafney, Akshaya Handlooms, and Smart Look – Bespoke, showing how community backing makes these events possible.
Special subtitle winners added layers of recognition. In the Miss Category: Anusaya D’Souza Joseph for Miss Confident Diva, Nikitha Jogi for Miss Congeniality, Viola Lilly Alva for Miss Catwalk Diva, Cynthia D’Souza for Miss Best Personality, Tanushree Shetty for Miss Diva Fashion Icon, Tianna Mathias for Miss Fitness Diva, Tanya Sabnis for Miss Runway Diva, Shirley Crasta for Miss Photogenic Diva, Ishani Guruprasad for Miss Creative Diva, and Larissa Fedric Quadros for Miss Dazzling Smile. For the Mrs Category: Janice Leena Gonzalves as Mrs Confident Diva, Prema Fernandes as Mrs Congeniality, Vinaya Tilak Shetty as Mrs Catwalk Diva, Nayana Shetty as Mrs Best Personality, Ashmitha Kotian as Mrs Diva Fashion Icon, Valerie Fernandes as Mrs Fitness Diva, Preethi Seema as Mrs Runway Diva, Minu Jose as Mrs Photogenic Diva, Venecia Crasto as Mrs Creative Diva, and Laveena K B as Mrs Dazzling Smile.
Rewards were generous—the top three in each category walked away with cash prizes, gift baskets, and vouchers. Plus, the main winners each get a chance to star in an upcoming Tulu movie, a nod to regional cinema that might intrigue film buffs. The Miss Category victor becomes the face of Priya Fashions for the season, while the Mrs Category winner represents Mangalore Diva officially.
In wrapping up, the organizers poured out thanks to sponsors, partners, and all involved, emphasizing that “Mangalore Diva Middle East Miss & Mrs. 2025” goes beyond a typical beauty contest—it's a stage for honoring the resilience, allure, and cultural heritage of Mangalorean women in the Middle East. The night ended in cheers, joy, and unity, a proud milestone for everyone. But here's where it gets controversial: while pageants like this promote empowerment and self-worth, some argue they might inadvertently focus too much on physical appearance, potentially overlooking deeper qualities. What do you think—does this event strike the right balance, or is there a risk of reinforcing stereotypes? And this is the part most people miss: how inclusive are such platforms for all body types and backgrounds? Share your views in the comments; I'd love to hear agreements, disagreements, or fresh perspectives!
For those who missed it, catch the full show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-iqheYTx_b8
