Prashikha Sonowal from Assam has been selected as one of the finalists for the nation’s biggest and most prestigious beauty pageant for teenagers and adolescents - Miss Teen Diva. Born in Assam, Prashikha is currently based in Mumbai and is a student at the Sophia Junior College. She is a trained dancer specializing in Stiletto Dance form and has also won an regional beauty pageant in the past. Prashikha is a polyglot and can speak 3 languages including English, Hindi and Assamese. In this exclusive interview with the Beauty High Magazine, she talks about her preparations for the Miss Teen Diva finals and her journey till now.
Q. Many congratulations to you for getting selected for the national finals of Miss Teen Diva 2024 competition. How does it feel? What were the first thoughts that crossed your mind when you got the news that you have gotten selected to compete at the 2024 Miss Teen Diva contest?
Answer: I am very grateful that I have been selected amongst the finalists of Miss Teen Diva 2023-24 competition. It feels amazing to be a part of such a great platform where I can showcase my talents. I felt immense happiness when I received the news that I have gotten selected for the finals of the competition. It was a feeling that I would not be able to explain in words. I am so happy and looking forward to the journey ahead.
Q. Tell us more about the place you belong to.
Answer: I belong to the land which is bestowed by Mother Nature with infinite beauty, peace and serenity. It is one of the most beautiful states of India. The beautiful tea farms, mysterious hills, wild forest, and sparkling Brahmaputra River all contribute to the area's obvious attractiveness. It is popular for tea plantation and also for the Muga Silk, Pat Silk and Eri Silk which are not easily available in other places. World’s largest river island Majuli is located in the Brahmaputra River in Assam. Bihu is the harvest festival of Assam. It marks the arrival of spring and the retreat of winters. The word 'Bihu' means prosperity and wealth. The festival takes place during mid-April and the Bihu dance is meant to celebrate and emulate the seasonal spirit, celebrating fertility and passion.
Q. Enlighten us in regards to your preparations for the upcoming Miss Teen Diva competition.
Answer: I’m immensely working hard to achieve the crown. I make sure I practice my walk for at least one hour every day alongside working on my communication skills as well.
Q. In your opinion, what are the qualities / traits that you believe could help you move ahead in the competition?
Answer: The qualities that I believe could help me move ahead in the competition are to always have a positive mindset and follow the three D’s - Determination, Discipline and Dedication.
Q. Tell us something about your hobbies and areas of interest.
Answer: I like dancing, acting and exploring new things
Q. Any quote or saying that has a profound impact on you.
Answer: "The magic you’re looking for is in the work you’re avoiding."
Q. Who / what is your biggest support system?
Answer: My biggest support system is my mother. She is the one who gave wings to my dreams. She is the one who made me realize that no matter how hard life is you need to face problems with a smile. She is also my best friend
Q. When you look back in time, what is the biggest life lesson that you have learnt?
Answer: The biggest life lesson that I have learnt is to never compare yourself with others because everyone is unique in their own way.
Q. In your opinion, what is the best way to handle criticism?
Answer: The best way to handle criticism is to avoid negativity and focus on the positive things and be the best version of yourself because no matter how good you are people will always have something to say.
Q. One piece of advice that you would like to share with the individuals who want to join the beauty pageant industry.
Answer: One piece of advice that I would like to share with the individuals who want to join the beauty pageant industry is that you are going to learn something new from every experience. Every pageant is different, with different trainers, different judges, different production teams, different fellow candidates etc. So, be open to learning and accepting positive feedback. Whether you win the crown or not; the more important thing is to be yourself and learn from the journey.
Q. Lastly, any message for the readers.
Answer: Don’t wish for it, work for it
Soon, she will be seen walking down the runway at the upcoming edition of Miss Teen Diva beauty pageant. As she prepares for this prestigious event, we wish her all the very best for her journey.