THE stage is set for this year’s Miss India South Africa at Gold Reef City from November 30 to December 5. Twenty contestants from five provinces will compete for the crown which will earn one of them a shot at the Miss India Worldwide during its Silver Jubilee during 2016. It promises to be an exciting competition as some of the most talented contestants in the history of the Pageant take to the stage for what has become the longest running annual reality show in South Africa. Two major media partners have joined in for the first time, POST, one of the country’s leading mid weekly will be covering the run up to this event and during the final week will highlight news, views and interviews. GLOWTV will carry adverts, clips and some of the major talking points in a build up to the screening of its hour long presentation which promises to be exciting viewing throughout the country. Pageant co-ordinator, Mrs Preetha Nanhoo said that the competition was extremely tough and is being watched by a dedicated audience who are anxious to see who will succeed Shivani Naidoo. “Remember that our present Miss India South Africa was crowned second runner up in this year’s Miss India Worldwide. It is not going to be easy to match or beat this stunning achievement. “Whoever eventually represents us abroad next year will have to work very hard to reach such a high standard,” said Mrs Nanhoo. Pageant Producer, Mrs Kamisha Maharaj said that she was working on a whole new concept for this year’s show which will feature a whole new musical score. “People expect something different, more exciting, more vibrant and want to enjoy some surprises as well. I believe that we have the contestants who will be able to meet these requirements,” said Mrs Maharaj. Hairstylist, Mrs Shirley Naidoo will be doing her 24th Miss India South Africa Pageant and is working on a number of new styles for the contestants. Her job is difficult, during one afternoon she has to do at least 20 styles. Then she has to spend the remainder of the evening either doing changes or touch ups. “Its fast paced, at times it gets very busy. But I love what I do and it is on event in the year in which I truly enjoy,” said Mrs Naidoo. Make up artist, Shagufta Khan is all raring to go back stage, especially since she has some new ideas and a kit bag of “wonders” to ensure that the contestants are at their best. Added to the excitement is a dinner at the Crown Reef Room which has only just been built at Gold Reef City. Guests will sit down at round tables of 10 in a plush setting at 6pm. Then they would move to the Lyric Theatre next door for the Pageant which starts at 7.30pm. Tickets at Computicket. For Sponsors contact Riesling Consulting - 0828521346