First Femina Miss India Meher Castelino Passes Away at 81

December 17, 2025

Mumbai, Dec 17, 2025: Meher Castelino, the first ever Femina Miss India crowned in 1964, has passed away at the age of 81, leaving the Indian fashion and beauty world in mourning. Her death marks the end of an era for India’s fashion fraternity and pageantry history.

Meher Castelino, one of the pioneers of #Indian #fashion and fashion #journalism, passed away on December 16 in #Mumbai.

From winning the first Femina Miss India title in 1964 to building a remarkable career as a fashion editor, critic, columnist and author, her contribution to… pic.twitter.com/QWQ2z9oQOY

— Jaideep Pandey (@PandeyJaideep) December 17, 2025

Trailblazer in Pageantry and Fashion

Castelino made history by being crowned the very first Femina Miss India titleholder in 1964, a landmark moment that helped shape India’s presence on international beauty platforms. She went on to represent India at global pageants including Miss Universe and Miss United Nations, setting a precedent for future generations of Indian beauty queens.

After her groundbreaking year as Miss India, Meher transitioned into a distinguished career in fashion journalism, becoming one of India’s most respected voices in the industry. Her writings appeared in numerous national and international publications, and she became known for her insightful commentary on fashion trends and global couture.

Legacy in Fashion Media and Industry Impact

Beyond her modelling achievements, Castelino’s contributions as a fashion journalist helped elevate India’s fashion discourse. She wrote for leading magazines and served as a key fashion writer and commentator for prestigious events such as Lakme Fashion Week, chronicling its growth and influence over the years.

Her work took her across the world—from Europe to the USA and beyond—where she explored haute couture shows and interviewed top designers, bringing global fashion perspectives to Indian audiences.

Tributes and Mourning in the Industry

News of her passing was met with an outpouring of grief from the pageant and fashion community. The Miss India Organization shared a heartfelt tribute, calling her a “true trailblazer” whose legacy opened doors for countless women and inspired generations to dream fearlessly.

Current beauty icons and titleholders also paid tribute, acknowledging her role in laying the foundation for India’s modern pageant culture and celebrating her contributions that still resonate across the industry today.