Rachel Gupta’s Shocking Miss Grand Exit: Resignation or Dethronement? The Truth Behind the Crown Controversy

May 28, 2025 | Bangkok, Thailand

In a stunning twist that has rocked the international pageant scene, Rachel Gupta — who made history as the first Indian to win the Miss Grand International title in 2024 — has been officially stripped of her crown. The Miss Grand International (MGI) organization announced on May 27, 2025, that Gupta is no longer the reigning titleholder. What followed was a firestorm of speculation, fan backlash, and whispered accusations. Was she forced to resign? Or was it a quiet dethronement disguised as a “mutual decision”?

The official announcement was brief but stern. In a public statement posted to MGI’s social media channels and website, the organization stated that Rachel Gupta had “violated contractual obligations,” citing her refusal to participate in scheduled commitments and her involvement in third-party projects without prior approval.

“Effective immediately, Ms. Gupta is no longer entitled to use the title Miss Grand International 2024 or represent the organization in any capacity,” the statement read. “She is expected to return the crown and sash to the MGI headquarters within 30 days.”

But what wasn’t said spoke even louder.

A Quiet Rift That Grew Public

Insiders had noted growing tensions between Rachel and the MGI organization for months. In late 2024, shortly after her crowning, the Indian franchise — Glamanand Supermodel India — abruptly cut ties with Miss Grand International.

The breakup between MGI and Glamanand, led by pageant organizer Nikhil Anand, was blamed on “misaligned values and goals.” Behind the scenes, however, industry whispers hinted at power struggles, contract disputes, and a growing dissatisfaction with the control MGI allegedly imposed on its titleholders.

In a now-deleted interview posted on a fan page, one anonymous source close to Rachel claimed:

“She didn’t feel respected. After winning, she expected empowerment and support. What she got was micromanagement.”

Whether or not that’s true, it’s clear that Rachel found herself caught between two powerful forces — the organization that crowned her and the national franchise that discovered her.

Contract Controversy: A Hidden Clause?

One of the biggest factors in the fallout may be Rachel’s long-term contractual obligations. According to documents leaked online (unverified but widely circulated), Gupta had signed a five-year exclusivity contract with Glamanand — not MGI. That detail may have prevented MGI from exerting full control over her career, leading to friction between the two parties.

Meanwhile, Gupta reportedly accepted multiple brand endorsements and side projects in India without seeking MGI’s approval — a direct violation of the organization’s policy. Among those projects was a rumored fashion collaboration and a mental health initiative close to Gupta’s heart.

Sources say Rachel was warned several times but stood her ground, insisting on fulfilling commitments that aligned with her personal advocacy. Her refusal to attend a goodwill tour to Guatemala, which was part of her MGI duties, appears to have been the last straw.

Fan Backlash: Support or Betrayal?

The announcement of her removal sent social media into meltdown. Many fans were outraged, defending Gupta and accusing the MGI organization of being “unfair” and “authoritarian.” The hashtag #JusticeForRachel quickly trended on X (formerly Twitter), with thousands of posts expressing disappointment and outrage.

“Rachel Gupta brought pride to India and the entire pageant world. She deserved better,” one fan wrote.
“Miss Grand International is just proving again how it treats its queens like disposable faces,” another added.

Others, however, supported the decision, saying that a titleholder must respect the rules of the crown — no matter how famous or well-meaning they are.

Rachel’s Silence Speaks Volumes

As of now, Rachel Gupta has made no official public statement. Her last Instagram post — a black-and-white portrait with the caption “Freeing yourself is the first step to true royalty” — is being heavily analyzed by fans and pageant analysts alike.

Several celebrity supporters, including former beauty queens and Indian influencers, have publicly expressed solidarity with her. One noted:

“She walked with grace even when her crown was slipping. That says more than any press release ever will.”

What’s Next for Miss Grand International?

MGI has not yet named a replacement for Rachel Gupta, though it is expected that her 1st runner-up will assume the title for the remainder of the reign. However, no confirmation has been issued.

The scandal has revived criticism of how pageant organizations handle their queens, with calls for greater transparency, contract reform, and respect for individual advocacy. Many wonder whether this high-profile exit will prompt MGI to re-examine how it treats its winners — or simply reinforce its current standards.

Rachel’s Future: A New Beginning?

Despite the controversy, many believe this is not the end of Rachel Gupta’s journey — but the beginning of something bigger.

Known for her intelligence, eloquence, and passion for causes like women’s rights and education, Rachel is already being courted by brands, public speaking platforms, and humanitarian organizations. Some speculate she may even enter Bollywood or politics.

“The crown doesn’t make the queen,” said one commentator. “Rachel Gupta already wore her royalty in how she carried herself. Whatever she does next, she’ll rise — with or without a sash.”

Final Thoughts

Rachel Gupta’s abrupt departure from Miss Grand International 2024 has left a void — not just on the pageant stage, but in the hearts of fans who believed in her story. Whether she resigned in protest, was quietly dethroned, or simply followed her convictions, one thing is certain:

Her legacy will not be defined by a crown, but by the courage it took to walk away from it.