Divya Lakshmi was a part of the Miss Kerala contest in the year 2008. She was noticed for her talents, smartness and cheerful nature! She also won the title Miss Vivacious. Divya speaks to Kochivibe about her experiences being a part of this big pageant. Read on!

Did Miss Kerala pageant change your life?

Miss Kerala was a confidence booster for me. I got modeling opportunities through Miss Kerala, which I was unable to take up due to exams.

How were the grooming sessions? Did they help you later?

It taught me how to be spontaneous and have presence of mind. I realized that the spirit within needs to be more beautiful than the face outside.

Have you noticed any changes in the Miss Kerala pageant over the years?

Over the years, Miss Kerala has gained immense popularity. The competition has grown tougher as the contestants are more talented and confident. The selection process seems to have gone to a next level.

Personal Life.

I live in Mumbai. Life here is super fast and keeps me on my toes. I work for animal rights with an NGO called People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). Improving lives of creatures who don’t have a voice for themselves has been my passion.

Is Miss Kerala the shortcut to the glitz and glamour world?

When I joined Miss Kerala, the last think I had in mind was to get an entry to the glam world. I think Miss Kerala has more to it than just having the capacity to give one a ticket to stardom.

What have you learnt being a part of the Miss Kerala contest?

Expect least to make the best happen to you.

Message to aspiring Miss Kerala contestants for 2012?

Don’t chase the crown. Make it come to you!