ISLAMABAD: The 2021 edition of India's leading beauty contest, Miss Diva, has opened virtual auditions in what the organizers say is their attempt to adapt to the "new normal," as the country is still in the grip of the coronavirus pandemic.
Miss Diva is the beauty pageant that selects India's representatives to Miss Universe. Its ninth edition, LIVA Miss Diva 2021, is organized in association with LIVA, a fashion ingredient brand, and short video platform MX TakaTak.
After the online auditions, 20 shortlisted finalists will undergo training in Mumbai to compete in the grand finale in October.
"Even when the Universe is adapting to a ‘new normal,’ this year too … the show must go on … Miss Diva in its 9th edition, brings you the opportunity to apply for the auditions from the comfort of your home," the organizers said in a statement last week as virtual auditions are underway until July 20.
This year, the organizers have also invited transwomen to participate in the contest.
"Talking of being inclusive, for the first time in the history of beauty pageants fraternity, we encourage and call on Transwomen to participate to redefine beauty," they said.
Miss Diva 2020 winner Kuwait-born Indian model Adline Castelino, who became third runner-up in the recent Miss Universe pageant in Florida, said she was excited about the upcoming competition.
“My crowning moment was extremely emotional, and I feel overwhelmed to think of passing it on to the next Miss Diva Universe," Castelino said in the Miss Diva release.
"I’m also excited about witnessing the entire course of choosing the face of the country, this time from a different outlook and I wish all the luck to the girls aspiring to be LIVA Miss Diva 2021."