Bhavna Ramkissoon-Gunputh: Mrs Elegance Mauritius 2017

Ravishing, hard working and smart, Bhavna Ramkissoon-Gunputh bagged the Mrs Elegance Mauritius award recently. The French language educator, former lecturer and social worker speaks to us following her crowning.

32-year old and a resident of Riche Terre, Bhavna Ramkissoon-Gunputh has been married for four years. Apart from her master’s degree in French from the University of Mauritius, she is also an expert in Indian classical dance kathak. She came to know about the competition via media and acquaintances. “Often, my friends and relatives would tell me to enrol for the contest. I decided to give it a try this year. However, what motivated me most is the quest to discover and learn something new because I believe that life is a never-ending learning process.” 

The title came as a surprise for her. “When I heard my name being announced for the Mrs Mauritius Elegance title, it took some seconds to sink in. I was very happy and surprised. But above all, I felt honoured. I wish to heartily thank the Chairperson Lady Joyce Bacha for her precious advice and guidance as well as Mr Prakash Ramdhun, the president of the Mrs Mauritius pageant for his encouragement, support and for organising this event.” 

The final of the Mrs Mauritius award are scheduled for July 2. Contestants are busy preparing for this special night with rehearsals scheduled all week.For the Mrs Elegance award night, preparations lasted nearly two weeks but being a hard-worker, Bhavna Ramkissoon-Gunputh stood up to the challenge. “We had rehearsals three to four times a week, sometimes till late at night. We had to practice our entrance and dance steps. Preparations for the final are going on smoothly.” 

For the dance competition of the Mrs Elegance award, choreographer Karishma Sona trained and coached the participants. “Her help and advice are invaluable. All the contestants are worthy contenders. I am trying to strike a balance in my professional, personal as well as my social life. Moreover, I can count on the support and encouragement of my husband Rajiv Gunputh and I think this makes it much easier for me.” 

Social worker

Bhavna is a member of two social organisations, namely Bridging Mauritius and Smart Mauritius, both of which cater for the needs of underpriviledged students around the island. “Our main activity is an annual distribution of school materials to some 100 students. In addition, all the contestants of Mrs Mauritius are called upon to participate in social activities. As such, we are providing our help to the non-governmental organisation La Porte du Bonheur, whose President is Lady Joyce Bacha.” 

The aim of the association is to help and support underprivileged families. The association will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and to commemorate this special event, the members are preparing a calendar to be distributed among guests during the final award night. All funds raised will be donated to the association.

Bhavna Ramkissoon-Gunputh dreams of being a role model for her students, her surrounding and especially, for other women by encouraging them to be independent. She hopes that this competition will help her achieve her ambitions and fulfil her dreams.