Anvi Anant Kerkar, a microbiology student from Goa, was recently crowned Miss VogueStar India Season 3

RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY

For Anvi Anant Kerkar from Corlim, the journey into pageantry began almost unintentionally in 2022. While studying at Government College, Khandola, Kerkar was encouraged by classmates to participate in the college fest ‘Jubilations’ to help her class earn participation points. To her surprise, she walked away as the second runner-up. That experience proved to be a turning point.

“I decided that day I would come back stronger and more prepared,” she recalls. The following year saw her win the title of Miss Jubilation 2023, setting her on the path toward bigger goals.

Her next opportunity came while scrolling through social media, where she came across an advertisement for Miss VogueStar India Season 3. The platform’s inclusive approach, which welcomed women regardless of age, height, or weight, resonated with her. “What mattered was passion and dedication. That stayed with me and I decided to give it a shot,” she says.

Kerkar cleared the online auditions and was selected as one of 50 finalists from across India. In Jaipur, contestants went through multiple rounds including interviews, a talent showcase (where Kerkar performed a dance piece), and a ramp walk in designer wear. Based on their overall scores, 20 finalists advanced to a semi-final elevator pitch round.

In the final and decisive Q&A segment, she was asked which quality she would credit for her win. “My hard work,” she replied. That answer helped her secure the Miss VogueStar India Season 3 crown.

Though she didn’t face major external challenges, Kerkar says the internal doubts were harder to overcome. “I kept asking myself, ‘What if you lose?’ or ‘Are you doing the right thing?’ I had to let go of the fear of judgment and stop worrying about others’ opinions. Once I placed my trust in my own journey, I felt at peace and content with whatever the outcome would be.”

She also found inspiration in Season 2 winner Akanksha Mahat. “Watching her videos and how she presented herself really motivated me to grow.”

Currently pursuing her MSc in Microbiology, Kerkar balances academics and pageantry with ease. “Science sparks my curiosity and pageantry builds my confidence. They’re different but both bring me joy.”

Her academic efforts were recently recognised with the Best Student Award 2024–2025 by the Microbiologist Society of India.

In addition to her national crown, she has won titles such as Miss Micronova 2024 (PES College, Ponda), Miss Xtravaganza 2025 (SSA College, Pernem), Miss Creations 2025 (Dhempe College, Miramar), and Miss Prarambh 2025 (GVM’s, Ponda). She credits these experiences with helping her grow into a confident competitor.

She believes that one quality every young woman must nurture is self-belief. “In a world where women face countless challenges, it’s our belief in ourselves that helps us stay strong and move forward. A woman who truly believes in herself becomes unstoppable.”

On handling criticism, she says, “I haven’t faced harsh criticism so far, but I know not to let it define me. I accept feedback that helps me grow, but I don’t let negativity affect my peace. Positive self-talk and self-love help keep me grounded.”

Looking ahead, she plans to pursue both her passions. “I want to contribute to the world as both a scientist and a pageant queen.”