Meher Castelino, the first woman to win the Miss India crown and a pioneering fashion journalist, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 81. She is survived by her son Karl, daughter-in-law Nisha, and daughter Christina. Born in Mumbai, Meher first gained national attention when she won the Femina Miss India title in 1964. She went on to represent India at international pageants, including Miss Universe and Miss United Nations, setting the stage for future Indian beauty queens.

The news was confirmed by the Femina Miss India Organisation through an emotional social media statement. They wrote, “With profound sorrow, we mourn the passing of Meher Castelino, Femina Miss India 1964 and the very first Femina Miss India. A true trailblazer, she opened doors, set standards and laid the foundation........

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