Sigatoka lawyer crowned Fiji's first Miss India South Pacific

Sigatoka lawyer and human resources professional Shomal Naidu has become the first woman to wear the Miss India South Pacific Fiji crown, earning the honour of representing Fiji at the regional grand finale in Auckland next month.

Ms Naidu was crowned the inaugural Miss India South Pacific Fiji 2026 at the Suva Civic Centre on Saturday night after emerging victorious over 13 contestants.

She will represent Fiji at the Miss India South Pacific Grand Finale in Auckland on September 27.

Speaking after her win, Ms Naidu said the achievement had yet to sink in.

"I did not expect this," she said. "I'm very happy, very excited to represent Fiji and I hope I do them justice."

Khushi Bulsara was named first runner-up, while Mannishka Lal finished second runner-up. Narishma Sharma and Delwyn Kaur completed the top five, who will now form Team Fiji.

Former Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad, who attended the event, reminded contestants that pageantry was about far more than appearance.

"Beauty is not just about talent, it's about confidence, it's about inspiration," he said.

"I've always said that our young women represent the core values, the core inspiration that we need in any country."

Special awards were presented to Jessica Raj (Miss Potential Model), Violeta Lata (Miss Photogenic), Archana Lata (Miss Popular), Mandeep Kaur (Miss Friendship) and Mannishka Lal (Miss Talent).

The pageant, presented by Procera Music Fiji in partnership with Rhythm House Events & Films, links Fiji, Australia and New Zealand under the theme "One Stage. Three Nations. One Movement."

Procera chief executive Samuel Sen said the event marked the beginning of a new platform for Fiji.

"Those attending will witness the selection of Fiji's first representatives to compete on the South Pacific stage," he said.

Mr Sen added that organisers hoped to host the 2027 Grand Finale in Fiji.