iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
The 2024 edition of Miss India USA — the annual beauty pageant for Indian-origin women who are U.S. residents — concluded in New Jersey recently.
Teenager Caitlin Sandra Neil won the coveted title.
Caitlin is a second-year student at the University of California, Davis.
She was born in Chennai, India, and moved to the U.S. at the age of five, where she is living for the last 14 years.
“I am beyond excited and honored to be crowned as your MISS INDIA USA 2024!” Caitlin said in an Instagram post.
“This crown is not just a title, but a platform – one I will use to serve, uplift, and lead with purpose. I truly believe that leadership begins with the heart, and my heart is overflowing with gratitude for everyone who made this dream a reality.
“Mom and Dad, your unwavering love and support have been my foundation. Thank you for being my strength and standing by me through every step of this journey. This achievement is as much yours as it is mine.
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“A very special thank you to @aaryawalvekar, my friend and incredible coach. Your wisdom, patience, and support have been invaluable, and I wouldn’t be here without you.
“This experience has given me more than a crown; it has gifted me a sisterhood of strong, inspiring women and a purpose to amplify voices that deserve to be heard.
“This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
“Thank you to @ifc_worldwidepageants for an incredible opportunity and @thefotomafiausa for the amazing photos. A HUGE thanks to @h2h_beautyy for all my looks during this competition!!” she added.
Illinois resident Sanskriti Sharma was crowned Mrs. India USA. Sapna Mishra, a Virginia resident and Chinamayee Ayachit from Connecticut were named as runners-up.
Arshita Kathpalia of Washington won the Miss Teen India USA title.
(Top image: Caitlin Sandra. Photo courtesy: www.instagram.com/caitlinnsandra)