A doctor is hoping to inspire other women as she competes as a beauty pageant finalist.
Dr Niru Ghosh from Gosforth is hoping to be crowned Mrs India Worldwide after beating off stiff competition from thousands of hopefuls around the world to make it into the final 120 contestants. The pageant is open to married Indian women and aims to 'celebrate beauty and grace' while encouraging women to 'fulfil their dreams.'
The 44-year-old GP who is based at the Victoria Medical Centre in Hebburn, moved to the UK from India 18 years ago and has two sons with husband Saurabh Ghosh, a consultant eye surgeon at Sunderland Eye Infirmary.
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And now Niru hopes to swap the doctor's surgery for the runway and make it into the glamorous pageant final held in Dubai from June 5 to 9.
"It is the longest-running pageant for married Indian women all over the globe," Niru said.
"It is the 12th season this year and the final will take place on June 5 to 9 in Dubai.
"I only came across the pageant through Instagram when one of my friends sent it to me and said, 'You must apply.' I applied in late January and had an online audition where I had an interview and had to do a walk."
Niru must now earn her place in the final by taking part in a series of challenges including weekly social media tasks around themes such as cyberbullying and poverty, which will be marked by judges on how much engagement they receive.
She must also raise funds for charity and has been walking 60,000 steps a week throughout May to raise around £3,300 for Shanti Sajal Research and Charitable Trust which supports underprivileged people in India.
"I have always had an inclination toward beauty and fashion," Niru said. "This pageant is unique in the sense that it allows women to own their own uniqueness and be confident in their skin.
"It is something that has always been my dream to talk in front of millions of people to be able to convey my message which is that age is no limit and you should always try to chase your dreams."
If Niru makes it to the Dubai final she will take part in an interview and fashion show that includes modelling a sari, gown, 'resort wear', and swimwear. The mum hopes the pageant will give her the platform to raise awareness of mental health.
She continued: "I do feel that being South Asian I will be able to give the South Asian community a voice to talk about mental health. As a GP 40% of consultations are based around mental health so I think I can promote that if I have a bigger platform."
You can vote for Niru here and follow her on Instagram here.
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