I Walked Like a Warrior
From the Battlefield to the Stage
Dr. Shalini Devi Ramachandran didn’t just walk the stage at Mrs. World 2024 in Las Vegas earlier this month – she commanded it. With a record-breaking 121m-long train, her national costume, "Puteri Membara Malaysia", turned heads and won her the Best Costume award on February 2. She also clinched the Mrs. World Ambassador prize.
A Journey from Struggle to Success
The 38-year-old medical doctor and wellness advocate grew up battling childhood obesity, at one point weighing 124kg. Alongside her weight struggles, she faced type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, and hypothyroidism. "I felt inferior all my life, struggling with my body and confidence," she shared. Determined to change, she embarked on a gradual but transformative weight-loss mission, shedding over 60kg.
From Weight Loss to Wellness
Dr. Shalini’s dedication led her to eventually co-found Dr. Y Dr. S Wellness and Fitness with her husband, Dr. Yuveneswara Murti. Today, their chain of over 40 studios in Malaysia and Singapore helps individuals, including married couples, achieve better health.
Pageantry and Passion
Joining Mrs. Malaysia World in 2022 required her to believe in herself. "I’m not a model; in fact, I’m always wearing sports shoes, not heels," she quipped, crediting national director Harveen Kaur and makeup artist Dr. Rajavel Neelamekan for being key mentors throughout her journey to Mrs. World.
Sustainable Fashion and Cyberbullying
Beyond the competition, Shalini champions sustainable fashion choices, donning gowns made from vintage sarees and upcycled materials in collaboration with Kloth Cares. She is also a vocal advocate against cyberbullying, something she has faced firsthand, especially when she was heavier. "I wanted to be the voice for the voiceless. A girl like me doesn’t usually end up as a beauty queen – but I have. And I want to stand up for those who think they can’t."
Conclusion
Dr. Shalini Devi Ramachandran’s journey from a struggling individual to a beauty queen is a testament to her hard work, determination, and passion for wellness and sustainability. As Mrs. Malaysia World Ambassador, she plans to upcycle the long train of her award-winning gown and repurpose it into clothing.
FAQs
- What was Dr. Shalini Devi Ramachandran’s weight loss journey like?
She lost over 60kg through a gradual and transformative weight-loss mission. - What is Dr. Shalini’s current occupation?
She is a medical doctor and wellness advocate. - What is her mission as Mrs. World Ambassador?
To promote sustainable fashion choices and be the voice for those who have faced cyberbullying. - What is Dr. Shalini’s plan for the long train of her award-winning gown?
She plans to upcycle it into clothing.