Here’s to flower power! "KOYAL RANA"

Here’s to flower power! "KOYAL RANA"

With stars in her eyes and a burning ambition, Koyal Rana, Scooty Teen Diva India International 2008, represented India at the Miss Teen International, 2008 in Chicago.

This was the first year that an Indian competed for the coveted International Teen crown. A million-dollar smile and an unshakeable attitude made this teen a hot contender for the title.

Fifteen days spent in the company of other Miss Teens from various countries, and Rana came back with quite a few lessons well learnt. Says the perky adolescent, “It was a tough competition, but I felt like being amidst friends. I never regretted not getting the crown, as I realised that what I had achieved had far more worth.”

The international pageant had a tight itinerary with a host of programmes and appearances scheduled for the contestants. Orientation programmes, rehearsals, fittings, preliminaries and dinners had the girls all busy. They also spent a morning at the Brown Family Life Centre, Chicago.

At an age when youngsters can’t think beyond their homework and examination schedules, Rana loves to juggle a wide range of activities including modelling, but clearly maintains, “Studies are top priority.” Ask her how she stepped into the competition and the girl quips, “Oh, I really didn’t know about it till two days before the competition. And, once I decided to participate, everything was a breeze.” And, wasn’t she nervous, not even once? “My mom kept me inspired and motivated all through, so there wasn’t a chance for me to feel nervous.” Well, point taken.

The girls had to go through a number of rounds comprising unique activities like a visit to a children’s hospital. Provided only with a chaperone, they portrayed women who ooze confidence and yet retain their feminity. Says Rana of her idols, (all women mind you), “The ethereal beauty of Princess Diana has always captivated me and the strength of mind exuded by Indira Gandhi is something I would like to inculcate.”

Her eyes hold the beauty of her soul and Rana plans to take it up from here. Of course, only after she has decently done an MBA and modelling assignments are always welcome for this girl with an opinion. Way to go gal!