In the vibrant world of beauty pageants and fashion, few stories inspire as much as Parul Quitola Shah’s. From humble beginnings to the international stage, Parul Quitola Shah has continually shown what resilience, determination, and a positive spirit can accomplish. A Filipino-Indian beauty pageant winner, model, and wanderer at heart, Parul embodies the idea that success is about more than titles; it’s about courage, reinvention, and embracing one’s unique path.
Parul Quitola Shah: Early Life and Beginnings in Pageantry
Parul Shah’s journey to the crown was not an easy one. Born to a Filipino mother and an Indian father, Parul Quitola Shah was raised with an appreciation for two rich cultures. This multicultural background shaped her into a confident and dynamic individual, ready to take on the challenges of the pageant world.
Parul first entered the beauty pageant scene in 2008, where she represented the Mountain Province in the Turismo Pilipina pageant. But it was her determination to succeed at the prestigious Binibining Pilipinas pageant that marked the beginning of a remarkable journey.
Parul Quitola Shah initially competed in 2013 and was selected as one of the top 15 semi-finalists, an accomplishment in itself, but not quite enough for Parul. Her drive to achieve more pushed her to enter the Binibining Pilipinas pageant again in 2014. This time, she emerged triumphant, being crowned Binibining Pilipinas Tourism 2014—a moment that was a testament to her grit and hard work.
Setbacks and Rising Above
Despite her title, Parul Quitola Shah faced an unexpected setback. She was unable to compete in the international Tourism Queen pageant due to its cancellation. Instead of letting disappointment overshadow her achievements, Parul demonstrated remarkable resilience and patience, waiting for the right opportunity to showcase her talent on a global stage.
This chance came in 2015 when Parul Quitola Shah was appointed as Binibining Pilipinas Grand International. Representing the Philippines in the Miss Grand International pageant, Parul’s beauty, poise, and intelligence led her to a highly respectable 3rd runner-up position.
Breaking Barriers and Winning Hearts in Asia
In 2016, Parul Quitola Shah’s tenacity took her in a new direction—reality television. Competing alongside her friend Maggie Wilson, Parul joined The Amazing Race Asia and won the fifth season. This victory added a new dimension to her career, proving that her capabilities extended beyond the runway and pageant stage. It highlighted her adventurous spirit, strategic thinking, and teamwork. Winning The Amazing Race Asia not only elevated her profile but also helped her inspire countless fans across Asia.
From Pageants to Fashion: A New Chapter in India
Parul Quitola Shah’s modeling journey expanded further when she traveled to India. During the Miss Grand International pageant, Parul met Femina Miss India Grand 2015, Vartika Singh, who encouraged her to visit. One visit turned into a transformative experience, as Parul embraced the Indian modeling world with open arms and an open heart. She quickly made a mark by securing a spot in the Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2018. Parul’s success in India reflects her adaptability, resilience, and openness to new experiences.
Parul Quitola Shah candidly shares her experiences, offering advice to young women aspiring to model, noting, “You can know how to talk and walk, but if you don’t have that one little spark of confidence, things won’t fall in place.” Her words resonate with aspiring models worldwide, as Parul has repeatedly proven that confidence, self-acceptance, and resilience are the true foundations of beauty and success.
Balancing Beauty and Health: A Model’s Honest Insights
In an industry where physical appearance often takes precedence, Parul Quitola Shah advocates for a balanced approach. While she’s dedicated to staying fit, Parul emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s own body. She avoids strict dieting, instead opting for balanced nutrition and regular workouts. “I eat right and avoid eating junk,” she says. “If there’s something I really crave, I have it. I won’t be like, ‘No, I can’t have it.'”
Parul is also vocal about the pressures to conform to certain beauty standards. She believes in celebrating one’s body, whatever size it may be, and urges models not to obsess over the size-zero trend. “I am not a size zero and I’m happy. I am a size four,” she openly shares, reinforcing that true beauty is about self-love and strength. Parul’s approach to health and wellness has inspired many women to embrace their natural beauty and prioritize their well-being.
Indian Fashion: A New Love and Cultural Appreciation
For Parul, modeling in India was about more than walking the runway; it was a journey into the beauty and intricacy of Indian fashion. From wearing traditional Indian designer outfits by stalwarts like Manish Malhotra and Anita Dongre, Parul felt a sense of transformation. “Getting into these Indian designer outfits is a different experience; it actually makes you feel like a goddess.” Her connection to Indian culture has grown through these fashion experiences, fostering a love for the vibrant and diverse styles that India offers.
Life Beyond Modeling: The Power of Influence
When Parul isn’t modeling, she’s inspiring others through her beauty and lifestyle blog. She shares not only her travel adventures and modeling tips but also motivational messages about self-confidence, self-care, and embracing one’s roots. Her journey has made her a role model for young women in the Philippines, India, and beyond.
In her Instagram posts, Parul reflects on her experiences living in Mumbai, saying, “My wanderlust has led me to a love-hate relationship with Mumbai…But despite all the complaints and rants, I can’t help but feel a strong sense of belonging in this mad city.” Her words resonate with those who find themselves torn between the allure and challenges of a new environment.
Advice for Aspiring Models
Parul’s advice to aspiring models is a reminder of her strength and authenticity. “Modelling is a tough industry, and if you need to survive, you have to build a thick skin,” she says. Parul emphasizes that rejections are part of the journey and that every setback is an opportunity for growth. Her message is clear: keep learning, keep evolving, and never lose your sense of self.