Venkat Raman
September 11, 2023
It will be once again a rendezvous of fashion and culture with an admixture of talent and fun at the Miss IndiaNZ 2023 scheduled to be held from 7 pm on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at SkyCity Theatre in Auckland’s Central Business District.
Organised by Rhythm House Limited, the 21st Edition of the annual extravaganza will have the presence of India’s High Commissioner to New Zealand Neeta Bhushan as the Guest of Honour.
Culture and Dignity
Producer-Director Dharmesh Parikh said that Miss IndiaNZ 2023 will be a dazzling fusion of cultures, fashion, and talent with 22 Kiwi-Indian contestants competing for the coveted title.
“This year’s Miss IndiaNZ promises to be a celebration like no other, bringing together the vibrant tapestry of Indian and New Zealand cultures. Contestants, ranging from Chartered Accountants to Registered Nurses and IT professionals, have dedicated their time and passion to showcase the elegance, fashion, music, and dance of Kiwi-Indian culture,” he said.
Dharmesh said that entertainment is at the heart of Miss IndiaNZ.
“Like its predecessors, this year’s lineup will live up to that promise. The night will feature live singing by Amrita Kaur and captivating dance performances by the ECANZ Dance Academy (a Sri Lankan Group), Raunak Punjab Dee and Nach Baliye. Our guests can expect a spectacle of fashion, music, and dance, featuring a diverse mix of ethnic backgrounds and talents. This event is a unique opportunity to witness the essence of Kiwi-Indian culture on stage,” he said.
Hemant Parikh and Neha Bhatia, popular programme presenters of Radio Tarana will be the hosts,
Tickets priced between $35 to $55 (plus other charges) can be reserved at www.missindianz.co.nz
Special Attributes
Dharmesh said that Miss IndiaNZ is not ‘yet another pageant,’ and is not confined to external beauty but a host of other qualities of its participants and production team.
“Self-confidence, dignity, honour and possibly a career path are among the best attributes of this event which has been growing year after year and I welcome you to join this journey. In fact, this is not a beauty pageant- it never has been since its launch in 2002. Miss Indianz celebrates the cultural identity of our participants, encouraging them to showcase their talent, including their ability to carry themselves with elegance, think on their feet, answer a few unexpected questions, and express their beliefs without restraint. Our event has glorified womanhood and presented the participants with grace and dignity,” he said.
Dharmesh had announced earlier that Miss Indianz has done away with the upper age limit, but those under 16 and 18 years of age must obtain the written consent of their parent, guardian, or caregiver. He said that the decision reflected the changing social fabric.
He said that since the event began 21 years ago, more than 425 young women have competed in the event and that of these many have launched highly successful careers.
A career launchpad
“Miss Indianz is a fantastic launchpad into acting, modelling, and entertainment. While many beauty pageants focus primarily on the physical attributes of the contestants, with categories such as ‘Kiwi Girl,’ ‘Talent Round’ and ‘Question and Answer’ section,” he said.
Hemant spoke of his journey with his brother Dharmesh since 2002.
“We have always fostered a friendly and family atmosphere. Everyone has said that participating in Miss Indianz is itself a rewarding experience, accepting the decision of the judges with understanding and in the spirit of friendship,” he said.
