Ritika Khatnani, who was crowned LIVA Miss Diva Supranational 2021 in a star-studded ceremony on September 30, remembers the time watching former Miss World, Priyanka Chopra, when she was 4.
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“I was 4 years old when I saw Priyanka Chopra wearing a gorgeous crown waving her hand away to glory, that always mesmerized me. Much later I realized the power beauty pageants hold, a representation to showcase to the world. And ever since, becoming Miss India has always been my dream,” she told Opoyi.
Brought up by a single mother who is a wedding planner, Khatnani calls herself a God’s child.
“Absolutely, in fact, my mother actually had a Mannat to have a girl child, and there I was. I believe every wish, every dream I have and I want is always fulfilled. I believe God is always looking out for me, always having my back. I truly connect to the universal force while my life is filled with an immense amount of positivity, good vibes, and energy,” she said.
Khatnani, 19, will now be India’s face at the international Miss Supranational 2021 competition, where the country has won twice with Asha Bhat in 2014 and Srinidhi Shetty in 2016.
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She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in mass media and communication from Mumbai’s Jai Hind College and is also exploring multiple career trajectories in the fields of entertainment, entrepreneurship, and humanitarianism.
“To live a meaningful and a life lived not just for yourself but others has always been my purpose. This is my way of giving back to the Universe because it’s given me so much. Nonetheless, I enjoy and celebrate every bit of it. Entertainment, entrepreneurship, and humanitarianism are my keen interests! To uphold value and integrity in every field motivates me to become a role model for the upcoming generations! Without a doubt, a people’s person,” she said.
Also, Former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen holds a very important place in her life.
“The epitome of sheer grace, elegance, and wisdom! A woman of substance, character, and words! Always in awe of how beautifully she carries herself and lives life truthfully like a queen! Always so inspiring, empowering, and motivating! Definitely my favourite and a role model to me! She conquered the universe at all of 18, a visionary in the true sense,” she said.
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She also looks up to her mother as her biggest inspiration.
“Everything that I am today is because of my mother; she brought me up as a confident, independent, and ambitious woman! Every decision of mine is backed up by her; she is my pillar of strength and courage! One is always in need of a support System to Foray into the fields of your dreams, I’m fortunate to have had the influence of an incredible woman who’s wise, knowledgeable, and the wind beneath my wings,” she said.
