Miss India Australia 2023 Finalists
The Live auditions and training unveiling hidden gems
31 December 2023
From raw potential to polished brilliance, our journey with these talented Indian Australian women has reached a thrilling apex. After weeks of intensive industry-standard LIVE online and in person auditions and training, personal development, confidence building, and talent showcases, guided by the expertise of our esteemed talent mentor, Raj Suri, we’re finally ready to reveal the talented Miss India Australia 2023 finalists who are vying for glory!
The finalists were auditioned and trained to showcase their versatility across various media platforms. From acting prowess to captivating screen presence, Miss India Australia 2023 finalists showcased their talent ranging from Bollywood and fusion, semi classical dance, public speaking and acts/monologues, these finalists proved their ability to shine in the spotlight no matter the format.
And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for…introducing the finalists, each a luminous star in their own right!
All finalists of 2023 will receive complimentary a group mentoring session on career and personal branding from Miss India Australia founder and talent mentor Raj Suri.
VIDEO
Meet the 2023 Finalists
Indian Australian Women in Australia
MEET THE
Miss India Australia 2023 Finalists
Suhavi
MELBOURNE
Star Sign – Virgo
Hi,
My name is Suhavi and I hail from a gem of a town called Mcleodganj which is nestled in the midst of snow capped mountains, in India. I am currently residing in Melbourne, pursuing my studies towards becoming an oral and maxiofacial surgeon. Besides dedicating my attention towards academics, I am a professional belly dancer and have performed in a multitude of charity foundations such as the Cancer Council of Australia and Shiamak Dance Academy performing with Bollywood stars like Kareena and Salman Khan. My main reason for competing for the Miss India Australia title is that attaining this honourable position will allow me to gain a voice. A voice, I aspire to assist me in raising awareness on the devastating impact of the fast fashion consumerism. If our clothing can signify our identity, it should also display awareness that what we wear is our responsibility towards the environment and ultimately each other.
AUDITION/TRAINING
The Raj Suri Training/Audition was a very beautiful journey and wonderful opportunity that allowed me to embrace my Indian pride in a light that allows me to inspire other women from the Indian diaspora to come out of their shells and take pride in what they represent.
Kind regards
Suhavi
Lajja
SYDNEY
Star Sign – Pisces
Hello & Kem Cho!
I am Lajja Champaneria born and raised in Mumbai, India and moved to Australia in 2018 for my Master’s and specialization in Landscape Architecture. My personal interest and solitude lies in any form of creative endeavours and nature immersive activities like bushwalk, coastal tracks and outdoor meditations. Moving to Australia has been life changing for me as it exposed me to different avenues of my life in terms of personal and professional fields of interest. As a child I was very sensitive, creative and observant and I now see how these attributes have become my strength. I could see a holistic growth happening in my life as I perceived my career and moved to Sydney. Sydney is now my beloved home. Apart from Landscape Architecture, I have also acquired certification in Mindfulness and Healing and I now practice as a Mindfulness Coach, alongside my full time career and offer my healing and visualization services to the ones who need it.
AUDITION/TRAINING
Thanks and Regards,
I am extremely grateful to participate in Raj Suri’s Miss India Australia 2023, as it offers an opportunity for women to showcase their talent and voice their beliefs to further create a strong communal and cultural awareness of our Indian origin. I really look forward to share this experience with other like-minded, strong and inspiring women who are chasing their dream fearlessly.
Lajja Champaneria
Upasna
SYDNEY
Star Sign – Scorpio
Namaste,
Let me paint you a picture of vibrant Sydney, where dreams tango with ambition! I’m Upasna Khastgir, and beneath my senior analyst suit at the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority, where I help safeguard the financial pulse of Australia, beats a fiery spirit that grooves to the rhythm of Bollywood. Dancing isn’t just a hobby for me; it’s a pilgrimage to my heritage, a symphony of whispered prayers expressed through classical hand mudras that tell a spiritual story. I proudly serve as a Banking Financial Services Oath ambassador, passionately dedicating myself to a project that uplifts trust and integrity in the finance industry. In my spare time, I enthusiastically mentor and coach high school and university students, guiding them to unlock their full potential and achieve their aspirations. Participating in Raj Suri’s Miss India 2023 competition is a fervent extension of my connection to my Indian heritage and my commitment to fostering positive change within the community.
AUDITION/TRAINING
For me, Raj Suri’s Miss India Australia wasn’t just an audition; it was the start of a journey to unlock my self-confidence. Raj’s supportive approach and unwavering mission to uplift women resonated deeply with me. I stand here, not just as Sydney’s representative, but as a voice yearning to tackle social issues, to bridge the gap in the Indian community, all while nurturing the leader I dream of becoming. True leadership, in my eyes, is not about titles; it’s about weaving vibrant tapestries of impact, one confident step at a time.
With a grateful heart and fiery spirit
Upasna Khastgir
Ramneet
GOLD COAST
Star Sign – Capricorn
My name is Ramneet and I’m from one of the most beautiful destinations of Australia, the Gold Coast! It’s an absolute pleasure to take part in Miss India Australia 2023. My purpose is to become a leader of change. Growing up in Australia as a child of immigrants, my experiences have taught me the value of cultural integrity, resilience, and beauty standards. Being different looking has challenged me, but this only motivates me to work twice as hard to become successful in life. I truly believe that the identity of a young Indian woman is ever-changing. I hope to embody this by being influential, carry myself with confidence and make bold decisions. Professionally I am a paediatric speech pathologist, I am studying a Masters in Audiology. I also model, act, dance, and volunteer for disadvantaged families. For me, my job is not my identity rather, I am an individual that believes in person centred values that makes me feel whole as a person.
AUDITION/TRAINING
love
I loved the Raj Suri Audition! It was an opportunity to be in the presence of a professional that supports the Indian-Australian woman identity. Being able to hear about Raj’s experiences and previous winners was incredibly inspirational.
Ramneet
Desiree
MELBOURNE
Star Sign – Sagittarius
Hello,
It is thrilling to be a finalist in a competition that redefines the pageant industry by empowering women through education, entrepreneurship, and personal development. For me, beauty is an energy, not physicality. There is nothing more attractive than someone who radiates confidence and security, who shows up unapologetically imperfect and who uses their knowledge to make a positive contribution to society. This is why I am deserving of the Raj Suri Miss India Australia title, as I am the epitome of a modern Indian Australian women, who will use this platform to discuss topics I am passionate about, such as self-development and finance, not just relating to women but minority groups too. It is my mission to empower all women to be influential leaders, take calculated risks and create value for themselves.
I currently work as a paramedic with Ambulance Victoria, a privilege to be one of the few female, coloured paramedics, working in the Goulburn Valley region. An honour to work for a company that celebrates diversity where employees feel respected and valued. This job allows me to serve the community, build my clinical knowledge and mentor students, has also taught me how to better manage stress, and to not take life too seriously! I love reading books, engaging in my side hustle of modelling and doing TV commercials, and dancing Brazilian samba and bachata! I also danced Bharatanatyam for 10 years, which is my connection to culture, and this gave me the discipline, confidence and skills to perform on stage (and to dance along to Bollywood hits too!).
AUDITION/TRAINING
Thank You
The training sessions with Raj Suri, were undeniably eye opening and informative. I was able to explore my authentic self (values, purpose, what makes me happy etc.), discuss my niche and understand how my culture, upbringing and environment helps create my identify and ultimately my personal brand.
Archi
MELBOURNE
Star Sign – Cancer
Hello, Namaste
I am from Melbourne which is best known for its coffee culture, art and diversity. I am currently studying at TAFTA acting school. Acting has always been my passion as well as dancing. I am part of a beautiful community where I teach dancing for cultural events and like-minded girls. This thriving passion is one of many reasons why I wanted to participate in Miss India Australia 2023. I am honoured to represent both the beautiful countries India and Australia, where I belong. It has been an absolute dream of mine to be a part of Bollywood and I believe that being a part Miss India Australia 2023 will open many opportunities and allow to showcase my skills and talent. With this platform, I aim to inspire and encourage young women like me to follow their dreams and how they can prosper in unknown territory.
AUDITION/TRAINING
Love
I really enjoyed the training and audition process in Sydney with Raj Suri. I have gained a lot of knowledge and confidence. It was very empowering to see the support, the time and commitment he put into this. It made me strive even more for my dreams and my community. I learnt to believe in myself and follow my passions, to know that you are unique. Stand for yourself, you are the pilot of your own life. I believed in myself and that’s why I am here.
Archi Bhatt
Monisha
SYDNEY
Star Sign – Virgo
Namasakar
Raj Suri Miss India Australia 2023 is the first step towards making a name for myself and building a platform for my message – and what a fun experience it has been already! I am ready to share how Monisha embodies India, and the beauty that can arise from fusing cultures.
I studied Exercise Physiology and Psychology after learning the intricate dance that exists between mind and body. My hopes are that all of us embody royalty in mind-body- spirit with inner confidence. Our health ultimately resides within our nervous systems – I therefore believe all forms of marrying the mind to movement are sacred. I also practice dance and DJing…just play me a good beat & you can be sure I’ll be the first and last on the dance floor! These explorations allow me to navigate fears, stressors and usher myself towards higher thought and behaviour. I would love to share my experiences, learn from other like-minded individuals and teach important body-based mental health tools. Entering Raj Suri Miss India Australia 2023 is how I knock down walls (and stereotypes) to show the world who I am and what I have to offer.
Kajol
SYDNEY
Start Sign – Gemini
Namaste and Bula
I’m Kajol Arishma Chand, a 21-year-old tennis coach and former
international player based in Sydney. Armed with a degree in health science, specialising in clinical nutrition, I’m on the verge of launching my own clinic–dedicated to promoting holistic
well-being and skin nutrition. My journey is fueled by a profound desire to make my voice heard. I’m participating in Miss India Australia 2023 as a platform to advocate for important causes close to my heart. Tragically, my father’s passing has made mental health and trauma recovery my primary focus. Through my experiences, l’ve come to understand the importance of addressing these
issues openly.
Having undergone auditions with Raj Suri, I feel well-prepared and excited to represent Sydney in the upcoming national competition. As a Gemini,
adaptability is my strength, and I bring versatility to every aspect of my life. Beyond personal aspirations, my mission is rooted in empowering those facing challenges. My sister, who grapples with a rare disability, inspires me to speak up for those who are often overlooked. I want to use my voice to
create awareness and advocate for individuals facing various obstacles. In this journey, my aim is not just to win a title but to be a voice for those
Navdeep
CANBERRA
Star Sign – Scorpio
Namaste and Hello
I am Navdeep, originally from Haryana, India, and currently residing in the capital city of Australia, Canberra, where I moved to pursue education and work. A recent graduate in information technology, I now work as a Software Engineer. Beyond my professional pursuits in technology, I have a deep passion for Bharatnatyam and Kathak, which have not only been a source of joy but also instrumental in teaching me self-expression and fostering confidence. The decision to participate in Miss India Australia 2023 stems from my profound motivation and passion to empower brown women in Australia through education, support, and representation. I firmly believe that this pageant provides a platform that can amplify my voice and contribute significantly to achieving this important goal.
My passion for education has been a constant throughout my life, leading me to tutor women and students in both India and Australia. I am dedicated to making meaningful contributions that celebrate the rich heritage and diversity of India. Embracing the belief that “You are what you believe yourself to be,” I approach Miss India Australia 2023 with a sense of purpose, overflowing energy, and enthusiasm.
AUDITION/TRAINING
Thank you
Throughout the audition process, I witnessed personal growth and learning, an experience made smoother and more comfortable by the guidance of the mentor, Raj Suri. The training itself became a journey of personal development, boosting my confidence and reinforcing the understanding that with the right direction and determination, we can be multifaceted and accomplish anything we set our minds to. This newfound confidence has not only enhanced my internal self-perception but also positively impacted my outward image.
Navdeep
Akshita
MELBOURNE
Star Sign – Pices
Hi Everyone
I belong to the 3rd most liveable city in the world – Melbourne. A place where dreams become reality!
With a twinkle in my eye, a head full of dreams, and a heart full of belief, I entered the prestigious Raj Suri Miss India Australia 2023. This platform enables women of all kinds to step out of their comfort zone, transform into a better version of themselves, and serve as a voice to uplift others by leading as an example. It reinstates the existence of beauty with brains and gives a belief that a positive dent in the universe can be made.
As an engineer by mind, an artist by soul, and an athlete by heart, I firmly believe that there are no limitations to ourselves. We can don multiple hats and excel at them all. We are the wonder women of our own lives and it’s upto us to create a worthwhile life.
AUDITION/TRAINING
Love
The audition with Raj Suri will always be cherished, a mentor who has walked the talk of empowering women like me. With a grateful heart, I take back all the learnings and sign off by “You only live once, ensure you do it right!”
Akshita
Represent Australia in the Miss India Worldwide 2024
The winner of Miss India Australia 2022, Muskan Jangra, represented Australia in the Miss India Worldwide (MIWW) 2023 in India. The 2023 winner will also have the opportunity to represent Australia internationally and optional facilitation and training for personal branding for preferred career path by talent mentor Raj Suri and Team.
MUSKAN JANGRA ON STAGE IN INDIA
VIDEO
2023 Finalists Photo Gallery
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About
MissIndia.com.au was established in 2001. The first Miss India Australia was announced in 2003. It is more than just a contest, it celebrates Australian diversity and cultivates Indian Australjn role models. Founder Raj Suri conducts women empowerment workshops helping with self confidence and image, career coaching and cross culture integration for young women in Australia.
Learn more..
Follow us on INSTAGRAM – @MissIndiaAus – CLICK HERE – Use Hashtags “#RajSuri #MissIndiaAustralia” For General Inquiries CLICK HERE For Sponsorships Opportunities CLICK HERE Interested to apply for Miss India Australia 2020? PRE REGISTER HERE Follow @MissIndiaAus
Miss India Australia 2018, Sakshi Singh, represented Australia in the Miss India Worldwide grand finale in USA in 2018.
