Phapha Gachui crowned 'Miss Manipur 2016'

Phapha Gachui was on Wednesday crowned as 'Miss Manipur 2016' while Urmila Sagolsem became the first runners up and R.K. Linthoisana the second runners up.

For the first time, 20 participants from different ethnic communities took part in the grand finale.

The contestants, who were screened out from 35 contingents, participated in the finale that took place at Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre (BOAT).

Despite chilled winter cold, the beauties contested the mega event, organised by the State Level Miss Manipur Organisation.

The mega beauty pageant was organised after a gap of four years, which was banned by the civil society bodies over a dress code disagreement.

Unlike previous beauty pageants, this year, the 20 finalists were given rigorous grooming and etiquette classes.

Event manager Phairenbam Sonia said Miss Manipur 2016 was basically a platform for the state's models and designers to exhibit their talent.

The 20 short listed contestants were Mutum Singthoi Chanu, Gurumayum Olivia, Phapha Gachui, Sagolsem Sanjana Devi, Urmila Sagolsem, Oinam Thoibisana Devi, Ts Selina Chantingla, Sushma Naosekpam, Tursia Ayekpam, Takhellambam Joymati, RK Linthoisana, Marleen Devi Soubam, Lamneimoi Chongloi, Christina Thiumai, Keipila Lovety Maram, Sharina Naorem, Rosia Naorem, Moirangthem Alka, Teresa Meinam and Jenny Nenghoithem Suantak.