MUSCAT: “It feels amazing to be recognized as a finalist from Oman in this pageant,” says Bindu Subhash, who will represent Oman in the final round of the Mr. Miss. Mrs. International Glam Icon contest, which will be hosted in Mumbai on February 11, and will feature celebrity guest artist Arbaaz Khan of Bollywood.

“My hard work and dedication has paid off and I am proud to have reached this level of competition,” she told The Arabian Stories.

The final round in Mumbai, as Bindu explains, would test the contestants’ on different levels to zero in on the winners. “Contestants would require to go through several testing rounds, including interviews – conducted by judges to assess communication skills, personality and intelligence, as well as the talent round, which will have contestants showcase their skills,” she explained. 

So, how will she wow the judges in the talent round?

By singing a solo number! Bindu has trained in Hindustani Classical music for three years and her singing skills will come to the fore at the final event.

A resident of Oman for the past ten years, Bindu, a mother of two ‘beautiful daughters’, calls herself a homemaker. She was born and brought up in Bengaluru, Karnataka, where she also completed her studies. She has a diploma in International Airlines and Air Transport Management, and a bachelor’s degree in Tourism. She is also a certified yoga instructor and is currently pursuing fitness coach training under Wankan Shotokan International. 

Below are excerpts of the interview:

What spurred you to participate in this contest? Have you contested in any such events earlier?

No, I have never contested in any such events prior to this. I always kept my dreams alive since my school days. I believe that when we focus on our dreams and work towards it, the universe will definitely bless and compliment us. And here I am to accomplish my dreams, after two decades, with the support of my family.

What were the requirements to be a part of the International Glam Icon? How long has been the process to reach the finalist stage?

The requirements to be a part of the International Glam Icon are fashion, talent, confidence to talk on a public platform and a positive attitude. The process took two months to reach to the final stage.

What were the challenges you faced? How difficult/easy was the selection process?

To me, as a homemaker, it was really challenging. Preparing for the competition included practicing interview skills, finding the right outfit, practicing the ramp walk, as well as dealing with the pressure and stress leading up to the event.

Who is your inspiration?

Priyanka Chopra Jonas is my inspiration. I consider her to be a superwoman who has accomplished a lot and is still continuing to do so. 

What are your preparations for the final in Mumbai?

I’ve been focusing on fitness and wellness to ensure that I look and feel my best. I am also focusing on staying calm, being positive and reminding myself that the experience of participating is just as important as the outcome. 

What would it mean to become the new International Glam Icon?

Winning the title would bring in a great deal of honor to me and this will be the beginning for me to embark on a new journey.

Acclaimed as a platform to showcase beauty and talent of contestants, representing countries around the world for the coveted titles, season 4 of International Glam Icon will lead winners towards glory and crown.