Arts
Taking it all in her stride; a pageant, a pandemic
Last October, overwhelmed with surprise and disbelief, 22-year-old Dewmini Thathsarani was crowned Miss Sri Lanka for Miss World after a gruelling few months of hard work and competition. “I was only 21 when I entered the contest, I had no idea that I would make it to the top three,” Dewmini recalls as she remembers the rush of emotions that flooded her.
A picture of elegance: Dewmini models a white and silver creation by Amilani Perera. Pic by Anushka Eranga
A hectic pageant schedule which saw her meeting some prominent personalities in the fashion and beauty industry here was what she calls her ‘learning curve’. A curve she took advantage of as she set off to London in December to represent Sri Lanka at the Miss World pageant – one of the most prestigious by any standards.
“I had never travelled out of the country before, London was my first ever tour,” Dewmini says candidly, remarking that the trip was ‘magnificent’.The Miss World Pageant was held during the thick of winter yet London fashion was at its best she tells us – it was then she realized why they called London a fashion capital of the world.
Apart from being able to make friends with the other 120 participants and learn about different cultures and languages, she talks particularly of her roommate Miss England from whom she learnt much about the rich culture and heritage of the country. The highlight of the Miss World pageant for her were the rehearsals for the competition – a fantastic learning opportunity.
“I still keep in touch when time permits with all my fellow contestants and I know for sure that going back to London someday is on my ‘’to do’’ list,” she says.
She admits that her life has definitely been impacted by the ongoing pandemic as it has many lives and livelihoods of most people in Sri Lanka and around the world. However she takes it in her stride as she feels many life lessons have been learnt through this tough period.
“I always had the urge to help my country irrespective of winning the title and now I know that the necessity is to first help my community and now I feel it is even more essential to help not only those who are affected by the pandemic but also the less fortunate,” Dewmini says emphasizing that as a country we need to support one another to reach our fullest potential.
Given the uncertainty of the times, the usual celebrity whirl that accompanies a Miss Sri Lanka title holder has not happened but this unassuming and down to earth beauty from Kandy isn’t complaining. Getting involved with worthy projects to rebuild the nation is the right step ahead, she feels.
She expresses her gratitude towards her family – her pillars of strength and protection along with Tracy Francis who she calls her mentor and trusted friend; and Sangeetha Weeraratne, Asim Younoos and Amilani Perera who helped her on her journey throughout with sponsorships and support.
Sultry style: Dewmini in a black blazer dress by Avirate. Pic by Nuwan Ranaweera.