Pema of Dehradun crowned Miss Tibet

Tribune News Service

Dharamsala, June 8

Twenty-four-year-old Pema Cheodon from Dehradun was crowned Miss Tibet in McLeodganj on Sunday. She received a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh.

“I had never expected to win the title. I think more young women should come forward and take part in the contest. It is a step towards empowering women in our society,” Pema added.

“The Tibetan society should support Lobsang Wangyal, the director of Miss Tibet,” she said.

Lobsang Kyizom was judged the first runner-up while Tsering Dolma was declared the second runner-up. Lobsang and Tsering received Rs 50,000 and 25,000, respectively.

The three contestants went through five competition rounds — talk, talent, gown, traditional costume and interview.

Monika Nataraj, a trainer, and Shawn Shaw, who leads retreats in Europe, Central America and the US, were the judges.

Hundreds of people thronged the venue. It was the 13th pageant since its inception in 2002.

Outgoing Miss Tibet 2014 Tenzin Yangzom crowned Pema. Two former Miss Tibet winners Tenzin Yangkyi (2011) and Tenzin Dolma (2007) were also present during the coronation ceremony. Tenzin Dolma entertained the audience with a ramp show. Local and Indian artistes also performed.

Director Lobsang Wangyal said they had done away with glamour round of the event. Expressing solidarity with the Nepal earthquake victims, Lobsang said the contest was a low-key affair and that there were no fireworks this time.