Crowning Dreams: My Journey to Becoming Mrs. Maharashtra 2024- Nanditha Chauhan
- Team Stay Featured
- Jan 11
- 3 min read
As little girls, many of us watch queens on stage, their glittering crowns gleaming under the spotlight as they stride with poise and grace. For some, it’s a passing daydream; for others, like me, it becomes a quiet yet persistent whisper—a wish that echoes every time someone calls us beautiful.
But as life unfolded, I discovered beauty pageants are far more than a dazzling smile or a striking face. They are a celebration of resilience, intellect, emotional depth, and an unapologetic individuality. Beauty is not just how you look—it’s how you think, how you feel, and the way you touch the lives of others.

Life, however, had other plans. I was lost in the chaos of building my dream life, navigating through corporate deadlines, the rhythm of Bharatanatyam performances, and the joy of nurturing my skincare brand, 8by5 Organic Skincare, alongside my husband and mother-in-law.
Dreams, as they say, don’t fade—they just wait for the right moment. It was my husband, Mohit Chauhan, who reignited that spark. With his signature blend of love and persistence, he encouraged me to register for Mrs. Maharashtra Season 8. His confidence was contagious. “You’ll win this,” he said with unshakable certainty, repeating it so often that it became a mantra etched into my mind.
Manifesting this dream wasn’t just about wishing or writing affirmations—it was about showing up for every challenge with grit and determination. Every training session, every Q&A round, every walk was treated with the kind of focus one reserves for life-changing moments. Manifestation isn’t magic; it’s hard work wrapped in unwavering belief.
Mohit became my coach, my confidant, and my strongest ally. Night after night, he stayed up with me, perfecting my walk, grilling me with questions, and even setting up makeshift spotlights at home to replicate the stage’s intensity. “Top 9 and then the crown,” he would say, his belief lighting the fire within me.
Now, about grooming and pageant training by DIVA PAGEANTS—it was nothing short of transformative. Anjana Mascarenhas Ma’am helped me see myself as I truly am—both my strengths and areas to improve. Karl Sir reshaped my confidence, helping me articulate my thoughts and teaching me how to leave a lasting impression with my words. Cicilia Sanyal Ma’am was there to handhold me at every turn. Their expertise not only refined my skills but also strengthened my belief in myself, equipping me to face the competition with poise and grace.
At the moment I was being crowned, I was reminded of a lesson from mythology. Like Arjuna, who saw only the eye of the bird, I focused solely on the crown—dismissing doubts, fears, and distractions. My competition wasn’t with others; it was with myself, striving every day to outdo the version of me from yesterday.
This wasn’t just my victory—it was a collective triumph. My parents, Mamatha and Sathyendra Shenoy, were my unwavering pillars of strength. My mother’s daily mantra, “If not you, then who?” fueled my spirit, while my father’s wise words kept me grounded. My extended family cheered for me from afar.

My in-laws, Deepa and Rajesh Chauhan, became equal stakeholders in this dream. My mother-in-law meticulously ensured I was flawlessly prepped, while my father-in-law was my emotional anchor. Even my friends and colleagues cheered me on, generously supporting my Beauty with a Purpose initiative, reminding me how deeply blessed I am.
Friendships became the crown jewels of my experience. My incredible roommate, Dimple Zaveri, and my confidante, Dr. Swetha Karlapudi, stood by me like sisters, their unwavering support lifting me in moments of doubt. Together, we laughed, we cried, and we grew, building bonds I know will last a lifetime.
Being Crowned ‘Mrs. Maharashtra Season 8’ by DIVA PAGEANTS, is not just a title —it’s a testament to the power of persistence, the strength of community, and the magic of dreams nurtured by love and belief. This journey has taught me that success is sweeter when shared with those who stand by you, push you, and celebrate with you.
Today, I wear my crown not just on my head, but in my heart, carrying the lessons and love that brought me here.
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winner : Mrs. Maharashtra 2024
Season 8’ by DIVA PAGEANTS
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