By India’s Historic Win
India’s Rachel Gupta has made history by becoming the first winner of the Miss Grand International 2024 title from her country. She is also only the third Asian to claim this prestigious crown. During the pageant held in Bangkok in October, Rachel was spotted sharing memorable moments with Pakistan’s Roma Michael, captivating audiences on social media.
Bonding Over Punjabi Heritage
Rachel, hailing from Jalandhar, India, and Roma from Lahore, Pakistan, connected over their shared Punjabi roots. In a heartwarming video from the event, Rachel expressed, “Namaste, we Punjabi girls are together,” to which Roma replied, “I am from Lahore Punjab and she is from… Jalandhar.” Rachel enthusiastically added, “I have one thing to say, ‘Punjabi aa gaye’ (Punjabis are here)!”
Social Media Reactions
Their video received an outpouring of love online. One Instagram user commented, “Punjabi aa gaye oye… my two beautiful Punjabans,” while another noted, “Harnaaz Sandhu is also from Punjab,” referencing the Miss Universe 2021 winner who also hails from the region.
A Message of Unity
In a heartfelt post, Rachel praised Roma for her courage and grace, writing, “Competing alongside you has been a blessing, like finding a home away from home.” She emphasized that despite geographical borders, the bond they share remains unbreakable, stating, “We are born of the same blood, and you will always have a friend in me, and a home in India.” Rachel concluded her message with a powerful reminder of their shared strength, asserting, “What divides us is not bigger than what unites us!”
