Lymaraina D'Souza MISS INDIA UNIVERSE 1998

She's eloquent, agile and realistic. The title has not turned her head. Meet Lymaraina D'Souza, Femina Miss India Universe  

Q uaint, frail, sagacious and that's not all. Apart from her exuberance, this 19-year-old from Bombay exudes a rare warmth and sensitivity compared to most people of her age. For someone who has never gone on stage before an audience or modeled, being crowned Miss India is a feat. Yet Lymaraina sees it as an average, girl turned lucky. The beauty queen, whose name too means My Queen, says, "I woke up one morning, saw the ad in the paper and thought let's give it a try."

She loves meeting people, speaks French and Spanish, loves reading and believes in destiny. Ask the chatterina and she reveals more about herself.

How do you feel being Miss India?
Just a normal person, I had a good time at the contest. But I am still the same person, I do the same thing, travel by buses and trains. I feel amused at times, with the attention I get now. I'm not even the most beautiful girl in India. For me a greater achievement in life is being able to do something for others.

What was the reaction of your family?
They were all happy, but my parents are more concerned about how I live my life later.

Do you follow any kind of diet or fitness regimen now?
I was never into dieting and exercising. But for the Miss Universe I have to follow the schedule, which includes skin care, makeup and workout. I love it because people out there are fun to work with.

What are your future plans?
At present I'm studying commerce. I would like to take up psychology, because I love kids and I feel that they are very lonely at times. Or maybe catering because I love to lay out a lavish spread for people.

What kind of person are you?
I'm puzzled. Sometimes I'm quite introspective. It's difficult to figure out what I'm all about.

What's your sun sign?
Sagittarius, December 14

Your mission in life is…
To be successful and content.

Your fantasy vacation…
Maybe in Egypt and Greece-both the places have lovely architecture and lot of myths.

Do you like Delhi?
I love Delhi. If I ever move out of Bombay it will be to Delhi. In fact there are quite a few good-looking guys in Delhi.

In your next birth you want to be…
Just myself, I believe that even bad thing in life have a purpose. I am at peace with myself.

Your favorite model…
For now its Madhuri Dixit; she was a judge at the Miss India contest and she really, really liked my answer.

Your favorite actor…
Leonardo DiCaprio, one of the most gorgeous faces ever made.

Your childhood dream…
For me it's new dreams everyday. I never plan; you never know when the carpet gets pulled from right under your feet.

Your favorite food…
Simple food is what I love to eat but I love to cook elaborate stuff.

What do you hate in people?
I don't like people who interfere in the lives of others. Or those who harbour prejudices and preconceived notions about someone even without knowing them.

Your good qualities…
I'm sensitive and perceptive. I express from within.

Your bad qualities…
Speaking from the heart is the boon and bane of my life. Sometimes I'm misunderstood.

What turns you on?
Sense of smell in a man.

Your idea of love…
Crazy and impulsive but with a deep understanding and trust.

Your kind of man should be…
Patient, good looking, with a sense of humour, trustworthy not at all possessive. He should compliment me.

Movies you like…
Romeo and Juliet, Titanic and Khamoshi, all sensitive ones.

Your kind of music…
Mushy, slow and sentimental. I'm romantic.

Would you want to work in films?
No, fame and money are not worth peace of mind.

After marriage will you work?
I'm more of a family person, but I want a gateway to the world all the time. If I'll do then I'll operate from home.

Any message for the aspiring Miss India's…
It's not easy ball game; you are being judged constantly. You cannot be groomed for the contest in a few months, it's a lot to do with your inherent grooming.