In a shocking turn of events, Rachel Gupta, who made history by becoming the first Indian Miss Grand International, has stepped down from her crown—just months after her big win. While the Miss Grand International (MGI) Organisation claims she was officially terminated, Gupta insists she walked away on her own terms, citing a toxic environment and unkept promises.
This sudden exit has stirred a massive buzz across the beauty pageant world, and especially among her Indian fans who saw her as a rising global icon. Here's a closer look at the controversy that led to the fall of one of India’s most talked-about beauty queens.
The Rise of Rachel Gupta – A Historic Moment for India
Rachel Gupta etched her name in history when she was crowned Miss Grand International 2024 on October 25. She was not just another beauty queen; she became the first Indian ever to win the prestigious title.
Her crowning moment was celebrated nationwide. Rachel’s grace, intelligence, and charm drew comparisons to legends like Lara Dutta, making her a role model for many aspiring Indian models. Her win also secured her the Grand Pageants Choice Award, placing her among the most celebrated Indian women in global pageantry.
But while the crown may have shone brightly, what followed was far from a fairy tale.
“The Truth Will Come Out Soon” – Rachel Speaks Up
In a powerful and emotional social media post, Rachel revealed that she had resigned from her title due to a toxic atmosphere and mistreatment. She said she could no longer remain silent about the issues she had faced.
“Being crowned was one of the most cherished dreams of my life. But the months after have been full of broken promises, unfair treatment, and a toxic environment I could no longer accept,” she wrote.
Rachel also promised to share her full story in a video soon, hinting that what’s been shared so far is just the surface.
“Please know this wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one for me,” she added.
Her post ended with a message for her supporters around the world: to keep believing in her and to stay open-minded as she unveils the details behind her painful decision.
The MGI Organisation Fires Back
Just hours after Rachel’s announcement, the Miss Grand International Organisation released a statement claiming they had officially terminated her title. According to MGI, Rachel failed to fulfil her assigned duties, took part in unauthorised projects, and refused to attend an official trip to Guatemala.
The organisation stated:
“The Miss Grand International Organisation hereby announces the termination of Miss Rachel Gupta's title, effective immediately.”
They also asked her to return the crown to the MGI Head Office within 30 days—a move that made the matter even more public and controversial.
A Tale of Two Sides
While Rachel says she quit due to poor treatment, MGI says she was fired for not doing her job. So, who's telling the truth?
The disagreement has led many to question the inner workings of such pageants. Are winners celebrated publicly but mistreated behind the scenes? And how much control do these organisations really have over titleholders’ lives?
This isn’t the first time a beauty queen has stepped down. Just recently, Miss England Milla Magee exited the Miss World 2025 contest, citing she felt "exploited." Gupta’s exit seems to be part of a larger pattern that may need serious attention.
What’s Next for Rachel Gupta?
Despite the controversy, Rachel remains hopeful. She’s promised her followers a detailed video soon, where she’ll explain everything she faced during her time as Miss Grand International.
“I ask for your compassion, your open hearts, and your continued support as I take this next step,” she said.
She might no longer hold the crown, but Rachel Gupta’s voice is louder than ever. Her brave decision to speak up could set an example for many others in similar situations.
The story of Miss Grand International Rachel Gupta is still unfolding, but one thing is clear—she’s not walking away quietly. As the beauty pageant world watches closely, her fans await her video explanation, hoping for clarity and maybe even justice.