Nalini Keshava's Journey -3. The Big Day !

Continued from Nalini Keshava's Journey !

As we were coming close to THE day, tension was piling up for all of us. We had to get ready with our dresses for traditional and gown round. I had few options for lehenga, but none for gown. As I had never had a chance for my prom in India, I was excited to buy my first floor length gown. I wanted it to look different from others and within my budget. I finally bought one pink Organza gown through amazon. I was all excited but unfortunately it couldn't be delivered before the event day. I could not risk not having something special to wear on the day. I looked around and picked a beautiful pink gown from Macys. The store did not have my size in pink. So, I placed an order for the same gown in blue.

The practice sessions were so much fun with non-stop pranks and chit chaat. I was so blessed to meet so many likeminded people in one place. Soon nobody cared about winning. We became a very close family. We wanted to surprise Menka, Rinku, Manisha and Ashish Soni for all their hard work and support. We arranged for a surprise potluck. After tasting different delicacies it made me realize I was not the only good cook in the group. The event was in 2 days but we ate like there is no tomorrow. Nobody will ever believe that we are the contestants for a beauty pageant if they look at the way we were eating. Here are few pictures:

THE BIG DAY:

On THE day I fell sick. I was not comfortable wearing Indian or performing in front of a large audience. But, the show must go on. We started getting ready at Menka's house. Hair was done by Rosy and Make up by ZARA. I loved the way my makeup was done and my eye makeup was praised by all co contestants.

Our stylists Kalyani Dosapati, Sachinmayi Menon and Anita Chikle Purandare did an amazing job in draping the dupatta (chunni) for my lehenga. I chose to dress up in red lehenga with bangles, Tika and a necklace. Just before the Lehenga round my nervousness was at its peaks. I chanted Ganesh sloka in my mind and started my walk. My goal was to show the judges that I am calm and feeling normal. I smiled all the way until I came to the backstage. Phew, it paid off. I did not look nervous in the pictures or to the judges.

We changed to gown round and walking in the gown was so comfortable. I did not put on many accessories. It was a simple blue shimmer gown with no Khadas or Tikas or hair accessories. This time I walked with a little more confidence and completed my walk successfully.

Stay tuned for the next part to know more !