Dipanjali Chhetri becomes first trans woman to participate in LIVA Miss Diva 2021, check out how she is redefining beauty

The beauty pageant industry may look different than it did about 60 years ago, but it still has work to do. Especially when it comes to gender diversity and inclusion. But in recent years, some progress has been made. The understanding of beauty is shifting and evolving to be more inclusive. Closer home, one of the largest beauty pageants in India, Miss Diva 2021 has taken progressive steps in this direction. Miss Diva is a part of the Femina Miss India pageant that primarily selects India's representatives to Miss Universe. Dipanjali Chhetri is the first trans woman shortlisted to participate in the LIVA Miss Diva 2021. Her inclusion in the Top 50 of the beauty pageant sure has opened doors for more women from her community to achieve their dreams. The 24-year-old is all set to participate in the pageant. Hailing from Jaldhaka village in Kalimpong district, West Bengal, Dipanjali says she is "proud" to be a part of the competition. "I am proud that I grabbed this opportunity to become the first trans woman to participate in one of the most recognized beauty queen creator platforms. It's not just a stage for me to showcase my beauty and talent, but this opening has enabled me an opportunity to prove who I really am - A woman. It's a great moment of pride for all those trans women who aspire to be beauty queens, models and showcase their true selves. It was possible only because of this historic decision of inclusivity by LIVA Miss Diva 2021, counting trans women like any other women," said the beauty pageant participant. She added, "So now that the door is open, I wish many more women from my community will participate without hesitation each year." Just like many in the transgender community, Dipanjali's struggle was not easy. She found it challenging to explain to her mother and father, who were parents to five daughters and one son Sarwan Chhetri (now Dipanjali Chhetri). After years of testifying her reality, to no avail, she reportedly ferried to Delhi to redefine her social identity. She reached out to an organisation run for transgender people. It was then, by their support, that she finally won acceptance for who she is. Dipanjali is a model, a beautician and trans woman rights worker, who is now running for the prestigious title Miss Diva. (All photos: Dipanjali Chhetri/ Instagram)