Ved Barambe has etched his name in the annals of pageant history by becoming the first Indian and the first Man of the World to win the Best National Costume Award at the Man of the World 2024. This prestigious event, held annually in the Philippines and organized by PEPPS President Carlo Morris Galang, celebrated its 6th year with Barambe’s historic win marking a significant milestone.
The award-winning costume, named The Wonders of India, was a collaborative masterpiece designed by renowned designers Patrick Isorena from the Philippines and Mohammed Nagaman Lateef from India. Under the mentorship of King Aditya Khurana, the 2022 Man of the World winner, Barambe’s costume showcased the rich cultural heritage and iconic symbols of India.
The Costume: A Tribute to India’s Grandeur
The Wonders of India costume was an elaborate and intricate creation that took 408 hours to complete. The design featured elements representing India’s diverse and rich heritage, with a centerpiece that highlighted the Taj Mahal, a universally admired masterpiece of Muslim art in India. The costume also included the majestic white peacock, India’s national bird, symbolizing strength, power, and immortality.
Additionally, the costume paid homage to India’s legacy in global beauty pageants, referencing notable Indian winners such as Aishwarya Rai (Miss World), Sushmita Sen (Miss Universe), Lara Dutta (Miss Universe), Priyanka Chopra (Miss World), and Aditya Khurana (Man of the World).
Behind the Scenes
The creation of the national costume was a labor of love and dedication. Mohammed Nagaman Lateef, alongside Patrick Isorena, envisioned a design that would not only capture the essence of India’s cultural grandeur but also secure a place in history. Baskar Danasekar played a crucial role in selecting and managing the costumes throughout Barambe’s journey, ensuring that every detail was perfect.
A Milestone for Indian Pageantry
Barambe’s win is not only a personal triumph but also a significant achievement for Indian pageantry on the global stage. The license for the Man of the World Indian franchise is held by Aditya Khurana, the CEO of Iconic Productions, who has been instrumental in nurturing and promoting Indian talent in international pageants.
