Miss India Manipur & Kerala 2024 arrive as guest judges in Mokokchung
With the much-anticipated grand finale of Miss Mokokchung 2025 set for tomorrow, July 22, the town welcomed two special guests on Monday — Chanchui Khayi, Femina Miss India Manipur 2024, and Akshatha Das, Femina Miss India Kerala 2024. The two national titleholders will serve as guest judges at the event alongside Shyamanga Kashyap, Mele Pucho, Imlibenla Wati Nienu, and Asola Ozukum.
Held under the theme “Beyond Beauty”, this year’s pageant goes beyond the glitz and glamour to highlight important social issues — especially the need for greater awareness and inclusion for children with diverse needs. In a press interaction, both beauty queens praised the theme of this year’s pageant and expressed their excitement about engaging with Nagaland’s vibrant culture. They also conveyed their gratitude for Mokokchung’s warm hospitality.
Calling it “a starting stage for them,” Akshatha Das said they are looking for a Miss Mokokchung who can take the platform forward, especially since the pageant is returning after a long hiatus. “We want to see someone who can bring the crown home for Nagaland — at both the national and international levels,” she said.
Aren, member of MDACC and Forerunners Mokokchung, informed that a total of 13 contestants will be competing for the title this year. This edition is also setting a new benchmark in terms of professionalism. For the first time, the contestants are being groomed by Talent Foresight from Kohima, along with a fashion designer from Shillong.
Neitho Khamo, show director of Miss Mokokchung 2025 and co-founder of Talent Foresight, noted that what makes Mokokchung unique is how “people are coming forward” to support beauty pageants with purpose. “There’s often confusion between modeling and beauty pageantry, but there’s a fine balance between the two,” he said. Khamo added that he hopes Miss Mokokchung will continue to be a platform that inspires change in society.
Sashinungla Nathan, Patron of Forerunners Mokokchung, explained the decision to shift the event from its usual December schedule to July. “Earlier, we had very little time to prepare our winners for Miss Nagaland and other pageants. We want to send our girls out and bring the crown back home — and for that, we need time to groom them,” she said.
Tickets for the grand finale will be available at the venue, priced at Rs 300 (general entry) and Rs 1,000 (VIP, admits two).
A highlight of the evening will be a tribute runway, featuring all former Miss Mokokchung winners since 1992, including previous Miss Nagaland titleholders.
The finale will also feature special performances by Moko Koza and Tiameren Aier, adding to the glamour and celebration of the night.
