Rachel Gupta Resigns Miss Grand International 2024 Title, Organisers Claim Termination Amid Controversy
Rachel Gupta, the reigning Miss Grand International 2024, announced on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, that she has resigned from her title.
Her announcement triggered controversy as the Miss Grand International (MGI) organisation countered with a claim that she had been officially terminated from her position.
Instagram Announcement Sparks Debate
The 21-year-old model from Jalandhar, Punjab, took to Instagram to share an emotional message with her followers.
In her post, she stated that stepping down had been a difficult decision, but a necessary one due to ongoing issues within the organisation.
“Being crowned was one of the most cherished dreams of my life,” Rachel wrote. “But the months following my crowning have been marked by broken promises, mistreatment, and a toxic environment I can no longer endure in silence.” She also added in her caption, “The truth will come out very soon.”
Addressing her supporters directly, Rachel expressed regret over disappointing them.
“To all my supporters around the world: I’m truly sorry if this news has disappointed you. Please know this wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one for me,” she said.
Miss Grand International Responds With Termination
Shortly after Rachel’s post, the MGI organisation released a statement of their own. Contrary to her claims of resignation, the organisation announced that Rachel had been officially removed from her title due to failure to fulfill her obligations.
“The Miss Grand International Organisation hereby announces the termination of Miss Rachel Gupta’s title as Miss Grand International 2024, effective immediately,” the official statement read.
The organisation accused Rachel of engaging in unauthorised external projects, neglecting her duties, and refusing to participate in an official trip to Guatemala. They also requested that she return the crown to the MGI Head Office within 30 days.
A Historic Victory Turns Sour
Rachel made history when she won the Miss Grand International 2024 title on October 25 last year during a grand event in Bangkok, Thailand.
She was the first Indian ever to clinch the crown, earning her comparisons to Miss Universe 2000 winner Lara Dutta. Rachel also won the Grand Pageants Choice Award and received widespread recognition on the global stage.
Her journey to the international crown began in Jaipur on August 11, 2024, when she won Miss Grand India 2024, hosted by the Glamanand Group.
During the competition, she excelled in several categories, taking home titles such as Miss Top Model, Best Ramp Walk, and Beauty with a Purpose.
International Appearances and Philanthropy
Following her crowning, Rachel represented India at the Miss Grand Suraburi 2025 event. She also took part in charitable work, notably supporting the Foundation for Slum Child Care in Bangkok.
She donated essential supplies worth 10,000 Thai Baht, demonstrating her commitment to causes beyond the glamour of pageantry.
Despite these public achievements, Rachel revealed that the experience behind the scenes was far from ideal. Her May 28 resignation post made clear her dissatisfaction with the working conditions and treatment she allegedly endured.
A Promise to Reveal More
Rachel’s statement hinted at further revelations. Alongside her written message, she included a caption promising a detailed explanation in a future video.
“The truth will come out very soon,” she wrote, indicating that more information will be shared with her followers.
Adding to the emotional weight of her message, she included the line, “I love you all more than words can express. Thank you for standing by me,” followed by folded hands and red heart emojis.
A Tumultuous End to a Promising Reign
What was once a celebrated achievement has now ended in public dispute.
While Rachel maintains that her resignation was voluntary and rooted in mistreatment and broken promises, the MGI organisation insists she was removed for failing to meet her obligations.
As both sides present differing narratives, the pageant world and her supporters now await the full details Rachel has promised to reveal.
