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Rachel Gupta, crowned Miss Grand International in 2024, has stunned the pageant world by stepping down from her title, citing harassment and mistreatment by the organizing body, Miss Grand International Public Company Limited (MGI). In a powerful YouTube video posted on May 28, Gupta, only 21 years old, alleged that her reign was marred by manipulation, humiliation, and neglect, painting a grim portrait of life behind the glamorous stage.
According to Gupta, the organization immediately moved her into a cramped hotel room post-victory, so small that her luggage couldn't even open properly. Lacking basic amenities like pots and pans, she was forced to rely on takeout food, which led to weight gain. This, she claims, became a focal point for body shaming by MGI staff. She recounted a distressing encounter in which a representative openly pinched her body and pointed out areas where she needed to lose weight, a moment she described as deeply demeaning.
Gupta further alleged she felt isolated and unsupported, stranded in Thailand without proper security and with little communication from the organization. She accused MGI of prioritizing her appearance over her well-being, saying, "They don't care if I live or die. As long as I smile at their events and stay skinny, that's all that matters to them." A missing $1,000 incident, according to Gupta, went unresolved, solidifying her decision to leave.
MGI responded swiftly, revoking her title and issuing a public statement that fiercely denied all allegations. Labeling Gupta's video as misleading and defamatory, the organization maintained that her claims lacked physical evidence and were driven by emotional appeals. They emphasized their commitment to professionalism and refused to allow what they described as a "manipulative narrative" to tarnish their reputation or the credibility of their executives.
The controversy has ignited debate about the pressures and treatment of beauty queens within the pageant industry. While Gupta's emotional testimony has garnered sympathy from many, MGI's firm rebuttal ensures this story will remain a point of contention for months to come. As the dust settles, one thing is clear: beneath the glittering tiaras and red carpets, not all that glitters is gold.
