In a bombshell move that has sent shockwaves through the international pageant community, Rachel Gupta has resigned from her title as Miss Grand International 2024, citing mistreatment, broken promises, and a toxic environment—words that now hang like heavy accusations against the glossy facade of the Miss Grand International (MGI) brand.
Gupta made the announcement on May 28, 2025, through a raw and emotional Instagram post, stating:
“I have made the decision to step down as Miss Grand International 2024 and return my crown… The months following my crowning have been marked by broken promises, mistreatment, and a toxic environment I can no longer endure in silence.”
This resignation, unprecedented for a reigning queen in the middle of her tenure, suggests that what was once seen as a dream opportunity has turned into a nightmare of behind-the-scenes dysfunction.
This resignation, unprecedented for a reigning queen in the middle of her tenure, suggests that what was once seen as a dream opportunity has turned into a nightmare of behind-the-scenes dysfunction.
A Crown Returned — And a Reputation Fractured
The Miss Grand International Organization wasted no time firing back with a stern statement that announced Gupta’s termination due to her “failure to fulfill duties,” “engagement in external projects without prior approval,” and “refusal to attend a scheduled trip to Guatemala.”
“Miss Rachel Gupta is no longer authorized to use the title or wear the crown…” the statement read.
Yet, for many in the industry, this counterattack only deepened suspicions. Rather than transparency or humility, MGI’s public tone has come off as defensive, cold, and combative—traits increasingly associated with the organization’s now fragile image.
Philippines Steps In
Following Gupta’s resignation, the title was quietly passed to Christine Juliane Opiaza of the Philippines, the first runner-up. This marks a significant moment for the Philippines, now home to yet another international crown—though many fans argue that the crown now carries controversy more than glory.
MGI’s Unprofessional Pattern? This isn’t the first time the Miss Grand International Organization has been at the center of controversy. In late 2023, the MGI franchise made headlines for abruptly withdrawing its international competition from Cambodia, accusing the Cambodian side of being “unprofessional” as a host. The move sparked outrage across Southeast Asia, particularly after Cambodian organizers and officials had already made major preparations, reportedly investing heavily in event logistics and cultural showcases. The sudden U-turn not only insulted Cambodia but cast a long shadow over MGI’s treatment of Southeast Asian partners and collaborators. Now, with Gupta resigning under claims of internal mistreatment, many are asking: Was the problem ever about Cambodia? Or was the rot coming from within the MGI house all along? “This is what karma looks like,” wrote one pageant fan in a viral tweet. “MGI disrespected Cambodia on the world stage. Now their own queen is walking away. The real unprofessionalism is obvious.”
Dignity or Drama? Beauty pageants have long promised empowerment, elegance, and global unity—but the unfolding MGI drama points instead to power struggles, behind-the-scenes toxicity, and poor leadership. Critics are now calling for an overhaul of how beauty pageants are run, monitored, and held accountable. Gupta’s story, if verified through her promised exposé video, could become a landmark case of whistleblowing in the world of pageantry, showing that no amount of glamour can cover up internal chaos. “If a queen crowned to represent the world is brave enough to walk away, that should be a wake-up call to the entire industry,” said one former titleholder.
The Bigger Picture With the resignation of Miss Grand International 2024 and the backdrop of prior international host conflicts, a clear pattern is emerging: one where glamor serves as a distraction from managerial failures, egos, and disrespect behind closed doors. As fans, critics, and fellow contestants wait for Gupta’s full video statement, one thing is certain—MGI's glossy image may never shine quite the same again.
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