Participating in Mrs India (Humanitarian) is not just about personal achievement; it is about showcasing the potential within every woman to drive positive change.
Rakhshan Shamim Zahid
Social Entrepreneur
Fashion Expert
KFL Mrs India ( Humanitarian)
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
What inspired you to participate in the Mrs. India 2024 beauty pageant, how do you feel about being crowned the winner in the humanitarian category?
Participating in Mrs India (Humanitarian) category has been a journey deeply rooted in my long-held belief that every enterprising woman wears an invisible crown, a symbol of her strength, resilience, and dedication. This belief has always been a guiding principle in my life, inspiring me to strive for excellence and to make meaningful contributions to society.
I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to make this crown visible through my work. Participating in Mrs India (Humanitarian) is not just about personal achievement; it is about showcasing the potential within every woman to drive positive change.
Through the platform of Kshitij Fashion and Lifestyle, I want to encourage other women to step forward, to take on challenges, and to make a difference in their own unique ways. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, empowering each other to build a brighter, more inclusive world.
I am deeply grateful to Ms. Ranjeeta Sahay Ashesh, the national director of Kshitij Fashion and Lifestyle, for organizing such a meaningful event. Her dedication to creating a space where women can shine and make a difference is truly commendable.
What were the challenges you faced to achieve the title of Mrs India 2024.( Humanitarian).Pl share some special moments of this pageant and response from the audience?
Competing in the Mrs India (Humanitarian) category was both a deeply rewarding and challenging experience. This exclusive category demanded a comprehensive demonstration of both outward and inward qualities. It was essential to showcase not only a passion for serving society but also tangible results from those efforts. Equally important was the need to maintain a mental fortitude that could withstand rigorous benchmarks set by society, alongside a pleasing personality befitting the esteemed title of Mrs India.
Another significant challenge was the level of competition. Contestants from across India, all highly qualified and accomplished in their own right, participated in the event. Each brought unique strengths and experiences, raising the bar and inspiring me to push my boundaries further. The audience, with their high expectations, added to the pressure, as Kshitij Fashion and Lifestyle has a longstanding reputation for hosting meaningful pageants that highlight true excellence.
Despite these challenges, the moments of triumph and camaraderie made the journey unforgettable. Competing alongside such inspiring women was a privilege, and it was an honor to stand on a platform that celebrates and empowers enterprising women.
Can you share some details about your work as a social entrepreneur and fashion expert, how do you use your platform to serve humanity?
My journey as a social entrepreneur began with a foundation in journalism. Starting as a sub-editor for a leading English newspaper in Madhya . However, my passion for fashion led me to establish my own brand, Taraash. Through Taraash, I delved into fashion designing, catering to clients both nationally and internationally. This journey reached new heights when I presented my collection at Las Vegas and Phoenix Fashion Week in the USA
Fashion and Lifestyle has a longstanding reputation for hosting meaningful pageants that highlight true excellence.
Despite these challenges, the moments of triumph and camaraderie made the journey unforgettable. Competing alongside such inspiring women was a privilege, and it was an honor to stand on a platform that celebrates and empowers enterprising women.
Can you share some details about your work as a social entrepreneur and fashion expert, how do you use your platform to serve humanity?
My journey as a social entrepreneur began with a foundation in journalism. Starting as a sub-editor for a leading English newspaper in Madhya . However, my passion for fashion led me to establish my own brand, Taraash. Through Taraash, I delved into fashion designing, catering to clients both nationally and internationally. This journey reached new heights when I presented my collection at Las Vegas and Phoenix Fashion Week in the USA.
Recognizing the importance of women empowerment, I formed a dedicated team and established the NGO, Women Education Empowerment Society. Our mission is to uplift women from weaker sections by promoting their creativity and hidden talents through skill development and vocational training. Recently, our NGO adopted seven Anganwadi centers in Bhopal under the aegis of Women and Child Development Directorate to connect beneficiaries with livelihood training opportunities.
With the aim of working in the direction of promotion of heritage and culture and to provide strong platform to women empowerment, Begums of Bhopal Club is formed. And I am holding the esteemed position of President in the club . One of our significant initiatives of our club is the Pari Bazaar Heritage Festival. This platform showcases the talents and creativity of the women we support, enabling them to generate livelihoods. Through these efforts, we aim to create a sustainable and empowering environment for women, allowing them to shine and thrive in their respective fields.
How do you balance your work in fashion and social entrepreneurship with your humanitarian efforts, and what drives your passion for giving back?
Balancing my work in fashion, social entrepreneurship, and humanitarian efforts is both a challenging and fulfilling journey. My career in fashion, through my brand Taraash, and my dedication to social causes through Pari Bazaar and NGO, Women Education Empowerment Society, are deeply intertwined, driven by a common passion for creativity, empowerment, and positive impact.
Integrating Fashion and Social Entrepreneurship : In my fashion career, every design and collection I create is not just about aesthetics but also about telling a story and promoting cultural heritage. Presenting my collection in international platforms like Las Vegas and Phoenix Fashion Week has given me the exposure and credibility to influence and inspire. Through Taraash, I have the privilege to work with a talented team, focusing on empowering my workers by ensuring fair wages, skill development, and creating an inclusive work environment.
Humanitarian Efforts and Community Empowerment: My NGO, Women Education Empowerment Society, is at the heart of my humanitarian efforts. By providing skill development and vocational training to women from weaker sections, we enable them to become self-reliant and confident. Our Pari Bazaar Heritage Festival is a testament to our commitment, offering a platform for women to showcase their talents, fostering community support, and generating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Driving Passion for Giving Back: What drives my passion for giving back is the belief that every woman has an invisible crown, symbolising strength, resilience, and dedication. This belief was reinforced through my participation in the Mrs. India (Humanitarian) category, where I realised the profound impact we can make when we combine personal passions with a larger purpose.
In essence, my passion for giving back is not a separate entity but an integral part of who I am and what I do. Balancing these roles is a dynamic process, requiring dedication, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
The concept of “Beauty with Brain” transcends the traditional notion of beauty, encompassing not only physical attractiveness but also intelligence, talent, and inner strength. It represents a holistic view of what it means to be truly admirable, highlighting the harmony between a pleasing appearance and intellectual prowess.
A person who embodies “Beauty with Brain” is inquisitive, constantly seeking to learn and grow. As true beauty is often reflected in one’s ability to understand and empathize with others.
Emotional intelligence allows individuals to connect deeply, showing compassion and kindness, which are as attractive as any physical trait.
However, confidence is a key aspect of this concept. A “Beauty with Brain” person carries themselves with grace and assurance, comfortable in their own skin and confident in their abilities. Their ability to think outside the box and bring new ideas to life adds to their allure.
This concept also includes a commitment to continuous self-improvement, both personally and professionally.
A “Beauty with Brain” individual often serves as a role model, using their talents and intellect to inspire and lead others. They make a positive impact on their community and society at large.
My participation in Mrs. India (Humanitarian) reinforced this belief. The competition celebrated not just outward beauty but also the inner strength, intelligence, and passion for societal service. It was a platform where beauty was defined by one’s dedication to making a positive difference in the world.
Ultimately, “Beauty with Brain” is about embracing a multidimensional view of beauty. It’s about recognizing that true attractiveness comes from a combination of physical appearance, intellectual depth, emotional richness, and a commitment to bettering oneself and the world.
How do you plan to use your title as Mrs. India 2024 (Humanitarian) for further humanitarian work and inspire others to get involved?
Winning the title of Mrs. India 2024 (Humanitarian) is not just a personal achievement but a significant platform to amplify humanitarian efforts and inspire others to contribute towards societal betterment. Here’s how I plan to leverage this prestigious title:
Public Speaking Engagements : Utilizing the visibility and credibility gained from the title, I will participate in public speaking engagements across schools, colleges, corporate offices, and community centers to raise awareness about critical social issues such as women’s education, empowerment, and skill development.
Media Campaigns : I will engage in media campaigns, including television, radio, and social media platforms, to highlight the importance of humanitarian work and encourage more people to volunteer, donate, and support various causes.
Expansion of NGO Activities : With the increased recognition, I plan to expand the scope of our NGO, the Women Education Empowerment Society. Forming partnerships with other NGOs, government bodies, and private organizations to strengthen our initiatives and extend our reach to more beneficiaries. This collaborative approach will enable us to share resources, knowledge, and expertise for greater impact.
Community Engagement : Elevate the Pari Bazaar Heritage Festival to a national level, providing a larger platform for women to showcase their talents. This will not only generate livelihood opportunities but also inspire other women to pursue their passions and skills. Establish mentorship programs where successful women from various fields can mentor those from underprivileged backgrounds. This peer-to-peer support system will empower more women to realize their potential and contribute to society. Launch initiatives to engage the youth in humanitarian work, encouraging them to volunteer, intern, and contribute to community service projects.
Pl share some of the special features of your unique concept “ Pari Bazar?”
The Begums of Bhopal Club has revived 150 year old tradition and only women market of India, Pari Bazaar, established by Sultan Jehan Begum, aims to provide a strong platform to local artisans, new business start ups and artists to showcase their creativity along with empowering the women.
The club every year organises Pari Bazaar Heritage Festival as it’s flagship event. So far four seasons have been successfully organised.The Pari Bazaar Heritage Festival is a four-day saga that celebrates women empowerment, art heritage, and the rich culture of the beautiful city of Bhopal. This event pays homage to a legacy that has been carried by generations, showcasing the resilience and creativity of the people of Bhopal.
From traditional crafts to contemporary art forms, the festival showcases the diversity and talent of local artisans and artists.
The overwhelming response and support from the people have made the journey of the Pari Bazaar Heritage Festival truly incredible. The festival has become a platform for fostering a sense of pride and belonging among the residents of Bhopal, as they come together to celebrate their shared heritage and identity.
With the tremendous success of each edition, the Begums of Bhopal are committed to continuing the legacy of the Pari Bazaar Heritage Festival, ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to experience the magic of Bhopal’s culture and traditions.
What are your suggestions for the women’s across India and around the world who are interested in pursuing careers in fashion, social entrepreneurship?
For women across India and around the world interested in pursuing careers in fashion and social entrepreneurship, here are some key suggestions:
Take formal education in fashion design, textiles, or related fields. Stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and technologies in the fashion industry. Include diverse styles and techniques to demonstrate your versatility in your portfolio.
Pursuing a career in fashion or social entrepreneurship can be challenging, but persistence and resilience are key.
– Learn from setbacks and use them
as opportunities for growth.
Find mentors who can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights based on their experiences.
– Participate in mentorshipprograms
and seek advice from industry leaders.
Continuously update your knowledge and skills through courses, workshops, and reading.
– Stay curious and open to new ideas and perspectives.
For Social Entrepreneurship:
n Choose a social issue you are passionate about, such as women’s empowerment, education, healthcare, or environmental sustainability.
n As you grow in your career, look for opportunities to mentor and support other women. Create platforms and opportunities for others to showcase their talents and skills.
n Develop a clear business plan outlining your mission, objectives, target audience, and strategies for achieving your goals. Include financial projections and a plan for sustainable growth.
n Surround yourself with individuals who share your vision and bring diverse skills to the table. Provide training and development opportunities to empower your team members.
n By following these suggestions, women can successfully navigate their careers in fashion and social entrepreneurship, making a significant impact on society while achieving their personal and professional goals.
How would you like to inspire those womens, who are struggling with domestic violence but facing lack of confidence to fight for their legal rights?
By creating a comprehensive support system that addresses their emotional, financial, and legal needs, we can help these women build the confidence to fight for their rights and reclaim their lives. I would like to spread empowerment through knowledge.
n Conduct workshops and seminars to educate women about their legal rights and the resources available to them.
n Offer skill development and vocational training programs to help women gain financial independence. Encourage and support women in starting their own businesses or ventures. Financial independence can significantly enhance their self-esteem and decision-making power.
n Provide access to legal aid and pro bono services to help women understand and pursue their legal options.
n Offer counseling and psychological support to help women deal with trauma and build their confidence. Professional therapists can play a critical role in their recovery and empowerment.
n Highlight and celebrate women who have overcome domestic violence and are thriving. Seeing women who have successfully rebuilt their lives can inspire others to believe in their own potential.
Which is your favourite quote?
With regards on receiving the prestigious title of KFL Mrs India in (Humanitarian) category I would like to say all enterprising women that “Always Wear Your Invisible Crown as God Put a Light in You. On Purpose.”
