02.06.2025 – (12:01 PM) Htate

Miss India Rachel Gupta, who announced her resignation as Miss Grand International 2024, has been asked to return her crown within 30 days, the MGI organization said on May 28.

The 20-year-old model, who was the first Indian to win the Miss Grand International crown, announced on May 28 that she was withdrawing from the Miss Grand International 2024 pageant due to unbearable circumstances.

In an Instagram post, Rachel said, “Winning the crown was one of the biggest dreams of my life. Representing my country was full of expectations and excitement. However, after winning the crown, I have been faced with broken promises and unpleasant interactions. It has become a toxic environment that I can no longer tolerate. I did not decide to resign lightly.” Another video shared by Rachel in more detail has also surfaced on social media.

MGI’s response, however, contradicts what Rachel said. The notice to return the crown states that Rachel has been stripped of her title for failing to fulfill her responsibilities, accepting outside work in violation of her contract, and refusing to travel to Guatemala.

Rachel is no longer entitled to use the title, nor is she entitled to the crown, and must return the crown to MGI headquarters within 30 days starting May 28.

The first runner-up in the Miss Grand International 2024 finals was Filipino beauty queen Christine Julian Opiazar, and the crowning ceremony for Opiazar as Miss Grand International 2024 will be held on June 3 at the MGI Hall.