Kaya Chakrabortty, the newly crowned Miss Universe Japan 2024, made a special visit to her former school, Michigan State University, on November 13. She gathered with students, faculty, and local supporters to celebrate her win and delve into Japanese beauty standards.
The event was organized by the Asian Studies Center and the College of Arts and Letters at the International Center. During the evening, Chakrabortty shared her experiences from the pageant and offered insights into the cultural nuances of beauty. A lively Q&A session followed, allowing attendees to engage directly with her.
One notable topic was the Kawaii aesthetic in Japan, characterized by cute features and a more reserved demeanor. In contrast, American beauty ideals often celebrate boldness and confidence. Chakrabortty discussed her unique journey of balancing these differing standards. Growing up in Detroit with Bangladeshi heritage made her more aware of how beauty can vary widely across cultures.
She emphasized, “I found it challenging to define beauty because Japanese standards differ so much from those of Indian or Bangladeshi backgrounds.” Her multicultural background influenced her approach in the pageant. She proudly represented her Bangladeshi roots while participating in the event.
Chakrabortty also highlighted the importance of female empowerment in pageantry. “We were there to show that Japanese women have voices,” she said. The pageant wasn’t just about competition; it was a platform for advocacy. Women of various backgrounds participated, sharing their personal causes while building mutual support.
Attendees echoed this sentiment. Isabella Debl, a senior, remarked on the sense of community among the contestants. “It was inspiring to see how supportive everyone was,” she said.
During the Q&A, discussions about Japanese culture and pageantry sparked curiosity. Vedika Pillai, a mechanical engineering sophomore, expressed how enlightening the event was, saying it gave her a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and Chakrabortty’s journey.
After the panel, attendees enjoyed a reception featuring sushi, where people had the chance to chat with Chakrabortty personally. Pillai noted her roommate’s Japanese background and how exciting it was to host someone of Chakrabortty’s stature on campus.
Chakrabortty’s visit not only celebrated her win but also brought attention to meaningful cultural dialogues, showcasing the blend of beauty, empowerment, and community in today’s diverse world.
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