Mumbai: Alessia Raut is no stranger to the spotlight. Over the course of over 16 years of her association with Femina Miss India, she has been the silent architect behind the transformation of many beauty queens, enhancing their poise, precision and charm. This year as the prestigious pageant celebrates its 60th anniversary, Alessia is back to groom the next generation of contestants with her distinctive talents. But for her, this milestone edition is not just another year – it is a celebration of growth, wonder and timeless grace.
“Every year there is a surprise waiting for us,” says Alessia with a radiant smile, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “The panelists always choose the best of the best, but by the time we reach the finals, the contestants have grown so much that they make it even harder for the judges.” It is evident that no matter how many years go by, the thrill of watching the growth and transformation of each contestant never loses its magic for Alessia.
Her role as posing expert for the official photoshoot is more than just perfecting the contestants’ expressions. It’s about teaching them the art of expression – how to speak without words and tell their story with a look. But more than just honing their skills, Alessia instills in them a sense of purpose. Posing isn’t about taking a pretty picture; it’s about telling a story, expressing emotions and building an unspoken connection with the judges. “For me, it’s about speaking through your body language,” she explains. “It conveys what you want to say to the judges. If you don’t have that expression, that emotion, I won’t be able to connect with you.”
Alessia knows that being Miss India isn’t just about walking in heels or striking a perfect pose – it’s about the ability to attract and captivate people with just a look. That’s what separates the greats from the unforgettables. And for Alessia, this personal connection shapes the winners both in the photoshoot and on stage. Her expertise lies in helping contestants strike the perfect balance between confidence and natural charm, ensuring that their personality shines through in every image. This year’s anniversary edition holds special significance for Alessia. Recalling her 16-year journey with the Miss India pageant, she laughs and says, “I survived! And I’m hoping to stay in it for as long as I can.”
