Shristi Khadka has been crowned as the winner of the 11th Miss Pokhara 2024 pageant.

Originally from Baglung Galkot and currently residing in Kajipokhri, Pokhara, Khadka won a scooter and NPR 50,000 cash prize.

She also earned the opportunity to represent Pokhara in the Miss Nepal pageant and received various gift hampers. Miss Pokhara 2018 Sara Bajimaya crowned Khadka during the ceremony.

Rekha Gaire became First Runner-up and Jessica Bishwokarma Ghimire secured the Second Runner-up position. They received NPR 30,000 and NPR 20,000 respectively, along with gift hampers. Rekha also won the Best Intellect title, while Jessica claimed the Best Dress and Catwalk awards.

The event, organized by Pokhara JCs through Event For You management, resumed after a six-year hiatus, coinciding with their golden jubilee year.

Contestants were selected through a three-stage audition process nationwide. After a month of training, 16 finalists competed in the grand finale at Pokhara Sabha Griha on Saturday.

Shristi, who captured the audience’s attention from the introduction round, also won several subtitles including Viewer’s Choice, Popularity, and Personality awards. She is currently pursuing BBA at Pokhara College of Management (PCM).

During the top 5 round, chief judge Subarna Chhetri asked contestants to choose between young and experienced leaders, explaining their reasoning. Most contestants favored young leaders, citing Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah as an example. Shristi’s answer particularly impressed the judges.

The judging panel included former MP and senior beautician Meena Gurung, actor Saroj Khanal, actress Eliza Gautam, La Grandi Principal Kiran KC, Sheshraj Bhattarai, and Dr. Ramji Sharma. Srishti has got an opportunity to participate in Miss Nepal.

Speaking at the event, Gandaki Province Social Development Minister Bindukumar Thapa emphasized the importance of such programs in developing young women’s capabilities and confidence.

Pokhara JCs President Devraj Sharma highlighted their commitment to showcasing young women’s inherent talents through this beauty pageant.

The event was also attended by Miss Nepal 2024 Ashmakumari KC, Nepal JCs Executive Vice President Rajaram Gautam, and Hidden Treasure Director Pramod Kansakar.

The five-hour program, including a red carpet event, was hosted by Pokhara JCs General Secretary Tilak Prasad Lamichhane and Urusha Joshi.

Pokhara JCs, established in 1975 under Keshavlal Shrestha’s leadership, continues to organize various programs. The first Miss Pokhara pageant was held in 1995.