Voice and vision power Indu Phalguni’s Miss India South win

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Calling the pageant stage a powerful space “where voices are truly heard,” Andhra Pradesh’s Chilakalapudi Indu Phalguni shared her journey after winning the Femina Miss India South 2026 title at a press meet held at Somajiguda Press Club on Thursday.

Expressing joy over her victory, Indu said the win was the result of nine years of consistent effort and practice in front of the camera. “I fell in love with acting and pageantry over time,” she said, adding that global icons like Aishwarya Rai and Sushmita Sen have been her biggest inspirations. While her immediate goal is to become an actress, she is also pursuing an LLB degree and hopes to appear for magistrate exams in the future.

Highlighting the role of her family, Indu described her parents as her strongest support system. She recalled feeling low after the final audition in Mumbai but said their encouragement helped her stay focused. “My mother always dreamed of becoming a dancer and model, and through me, she is living that dream,” she said.

Beyond the crown, Indu emphasised her commitment to social causes through her NGO, Indira Social Service Organisation, named after her grandmother. “It’s not just about service, it’s about empowering people,” she said, adding that she actively works for children with autism and ADHD,” she noted.

Reflecting on the 26-day journey alongside 30 contestants, Indu described it as a sisterhood and a celebration of learning. She thanked the Miss India Organisation for providing a meaningful platform and appreciated fellow contestant Ramya Kailasa from Telangana.

Encouraging aspiring participants, she said she is always willing to guide those who wish to enter pageantry. “Winning as a Telugu woman makes me proud. It’s not just about the crown, but about representing culture, purpose and voice,” she added.