India’s Rachel Gupta Crowned Miss Grand International 2024
Rachel Gupta has made history as the first Indian to win the Miss Grand International title in 2024, becoming only the third Asian to achieve this prestigious honor. During the pageant held in Bangkok in October, Rachel was spotted sharing heartwarming moments with Pakistan’s Roma Michael, creating a buzz on social media.

A Bond Beyond Borders
Hailing from Punjab on either side of the India-Pakistan border, Rachel from Jalandhar and Roma from Lahore embraced their shared heritage. In a touching video that has garnered widespread admiration, Rachel exclaimed, “Namaste, we Punjabi girls are together,” to which Roma replied, “I am from Lahore Punjab and she is from… Jalandhar.” Rachel playfully added, “I have one thing to say, ‘Punjabi aa gaye’ (Punjabis are here)!”

Social Media Reactions
Their camaraderie has resonated with many online, with one Instagram user commenting, “Punjabi aa gaye oye… my two beautiful Punjabans.” Others also noted the success of Harnaaz Sandhu, another Punjabi beauty queen who won Miss Universe in 2021, further emphasizing the pride of Punjab.

A Heartfelt Message from Rachel
In a heartfelt post shared in October, Rachel expressed her admiration for Roma, saying, “To my Punjabi sister, Roma, my heart swells with pride when I think of your courage and grace. Competing alongside you has been a blessing, like finding a home away from home. Your kindness, hard work, and strength are an inspiration to all, and I am so proud of everything you’ve overcome.”

Rachel emphasized the unbreakable bond they share despite geographical divides: “Borders may keep us apart, but they cannot separate the bond we share. We are born of the same blood, and you will always have a friend in me and a home in India. Keep your head high, Roma, because you are not alone. We are stronger together, because what divides us is not bigger than what unites us!”