In a tale of dedication and determination, Shruti Hegde, a doctor hailing from Hubli, Karnataka, has seamlessly balanced her rigorous hospital shifts with an unexpected foray into the world of beauty pageants. Recently crowned India’s first Miss Universal Petite on June 10th in Tampa, Florida, Shruti’s journey underscores her resilience and pursuit of diverse passions.
Navigating the demanding realm of healthcare, Shruti’s commitment to both her medical career and newfound pageantry success is a testament to her unwavering spirit. Reflecting on her dual roles, she mused, “Being a doctor is far more challenging than I initially imagined. The intense schedules can be overwhelming, yet I find fulfillment in both fields.”
For Shruti, entering the pageant circuit was a spontaneous decision driven by a desire for personal growth. She shared that many from smaller towns like hers dreamed of becoming a beauty queen. Her journey began with the Miss Dharwad contest in 2018, where her unexpected win propelled her into the spotlight and ignited a journey of self-discovery.
Her path was not without obstacles. A medical emergency in 2019, involving benign ovarian and uterine tumors, briefly halted her ambitions. “I thought my pageant aspirations were dashed, but with unwavering support from my mother, I persevered,” Shruti recounted. She embarked on a nationwide quest for personal development, mastering the intricacies of pageantry, from poise to public speaking.
Financial challenges initially posed hurdles, but her resilience bore fruit when she secured the prestigious second runner-up title at Miss Asia International India 2023. This accolade opened doors to the entertainment industry, where Shruti cautiously explored roles in serials and, most recently, films.
“The opportunity to feature in ‘Sharanara Shakti,’ a historical film depicting the life of Basavanna, was transformative,” Shruti shared. Encouraged by the evolving landscape of Kannada cinema, she currently stars in ‘Janumadata,’ a poignant exploration of familial dynamics, where she portrays the lead role.
Shruti’s journey exemplifies seizing opportunities and pursuing passions with unwavering determination. As she navigates her roles in medicine and entertainment, her story continues to inspire, reflecting the vibrant spirit of modern Indian women breaking barriers and embracing new horizons.
