As the excitement builds for the Miss World 2025 Grand Finale in Hyderabad, all eyes are on India’s representative, Nandini Gupta. The 22-year-old from Kota, Rajasthan, has captivated audiences not only with her grace and intelligence but also with her refreshing and relatable approach to health and wellness. In a world often dominated by extreme diets and rigid fitness regimes, Nandini offers a balanced perspective, proving that you can chase your dreams without sacrificing your love for life’s simple pleasures – even a plate of delicious pani puri.
Nandini, who won the Femina Miss India title in 2023, has been rigorously preparing for the prestigious Miss World pageant, which culminates on May 31st at the HITEX Exhibition Centre in Hyderabad. Her journey has involved intense training, interview rounds, cultural performances, and various challenges, demanding peak physical and mental well-being. Yet, in an interview, she revealed the secret to her sustained energy and radiant glow: a deeply rooted appreciation for “ghar ka khana” (homemade food) and the concept of moderation.
Coming from a farming background, Nandini credits her parents for instilling in her the importance of organic, wholesome food. She emphasizes the privilege of having access to fresh, pure ingredients – from lentils and pulses to fruits – directly from their farm. This foundation has shaped her belief that healthy eating isn’t about deprivation but about consuming the right foods at the right time and in the right proportions. “I don’t feel people need to skip their meals in order to stay healthy,” she shared, “Rather, you need to have all your meals, including breakfast, which is the most important meal of the day. You have to have it with the right amount of minerals, vitamins and nutrients.”
Her typical diet is a testament to this philosophy: a hearty South Indian breakfast featuring dosa and idli, complemented by beetroot juice for cleansing. Lunch often consists of simple yet nutritious Indian staples like dal, rice, and vegetables. This focus on natural, home-cooked meals ensures she receives essential nutrients without resorting to restrictive measures.
However, what truly sets Nandini apart and makes her an inspiration for many is her candid admission of a fondness for indulgent treats like pani puri. In a refreshing display of authenticity, she demonstrates that a balanced lifestyle allows for occasional enjoyment of your favorite foods. It’s not about strict adherence to a diet plan every single day, but rather about maintaining a healthy overall pattern. This approach fosters a sustainable relationship with food, preventing feelings of deprivation that often lead to unhealthy binges.
Beyond diet, Nandini’s wellness routine incorporates physical activity and mental well-being. She finds joy in movement and dancing, incorporating Pilates and weight training for physical fitness. Crucially, she also prioritizes mental health through yoga nidra and meditation exercises, which help her center and align herself for the demanding days of the competition.
Nandini Gupta’s journey to Miss World 2025 is more than just a quest for a crown; it’s a powerful narrative about holistic well-being. Her ability to balance the demands of a high-stakes competition with her love for traditional home food and occasional street food delights like pani puri makes her a beacon of relatable inspiration. She exemplifies that true beauty stems from a harmonious blend of physical health, mental fortitude, and the simple joy of living a balanced life. As the nation cheers her on, Nandini Gupta proves that achieving your dreams doesn’t mean sacrificing your favorite flavors, but rather finding a sweet spot where wellness and indulgence happily coexist.