NEWARK, CA: Natasha Malhotra, from University of California, Davis won the title Miss India Star 2012 organized by Swagat Foundation in partnership with India Waves TV Network at Hilton Newark on Saturday, September 29, 2012.
Scholarship prize of $10000 was shared among the first five winners. The First Runner-Up was Sakshi Sharma of Sacramento State University and Second Runner-Up was Shivani Phanse of University of Arizona. Title holder Natasha Malhotra walked away with $5000 in scholarship money and internship with India Waves TV Network and Radio.
Scholarship Star Pageant sponsored by Swagat Foundation headed by Mr. Jayaram Komati was held to recognize and assist in educational development of students of Indian heritage between the ages of 14 years and 24 years old.
“Our vision is to award annual scholarship cash money to talented students to aid in their academic expense, a service to give back to the community which we have been catering for over three decades”, commented Mr. Komati in his speech.
“Unlike other typical beauty contests, we primarily focus on contestants personality, ability to get along with others, and their achievements”, said Ms. Lakshmi Baweja in her speech. Ms. Lakshmi Baweja of India Waves TV network and radio services offered internship opportunity for title holder on India Waves TV Network, besides two other winners.
“The contestants are judged based on their poise, appearance, creativity, talent showcase”, said Ms. Vijaya Aasuri, one of the judges for the mega event. The event had four rounds including modeling in Western and Indian traditional outfits, talent segment and IQ round with questions and answers on youth related topics.
Vidya Sethuraman
India Post News Service
