Yogesh Mishra | yhmishra@gmail.com
Sadhvi Sail, 25, from Goa, is the winner of Femina Miss India World 2026 and will represent India at the upcoming Miss World competition. An Economics and International Relations graduate, she balances global awareness with glamour. Alongside pageantry, she is also the co-founder of a development firm focused on creating opportunities in emerging regions like Karwar. In an exclusive conversation with Yogesh Mishra, she talks about childhood memories, her Miss India journey, Bollywood, and the values that keep her grounded.
Can you share a memorable incident from your childhood?
I’ve always been obsessed with Bollywood. When I was little, I would change outfits five or six times a day. My poor mother was constantly washing clothes because I was forever dressing up, standing in front of the mirror and imagining I was the heroine of my own film.
Five or six outfits in a day?
Yes! I’d lock myself inside my room, put far too much powder on my face and genuinely think I looked beautiful. Looking back, I probably looked hilarious. My parents would have to knock on the windows because I’d locked the door from inside. I was definitely dramatic. Maybe the diva in me was born then.
You spent your childhood in Goa, right?
Yes. I was born in Goa before moving to Karwar for school. Goa gave me some of my happiest childhood memories, being around the sea, nature and a close knit community. Karwar, on the other hand, is where I truly grew up. It’s where I found lifelong friends and the values that still shape me today. I feel lucky to call both places home.
What does the name Sadhvi mean?
It means “virtuous.” Growing up, I thought it was a very serious name. But over the years I’ve come to appreciate it because it reminds me that character matters more than titles. Success comes and goes, but people remember the kind of person you are.
Is there a story behind your parents choosing that name?
My parents are very spiritual, and I think they wanted my name to reflect the kind of person they hoped I would become. I was their first child, so naturally they had a lot of dreams for me. More than success, they always wanted me to be kind, humble and grounded. Looking back, I think my name was their first blessing to me.
How did your journey to becoming Femina Miss India World 2026 happen?
Education always came first. I moved to Canada and pursued a double major in Economics and International Relations. When I came back to India, I was scouted as a model, and my friends convinced me to audition. Modelling taught me a lot, but I also realised I wanted an identity beyond just being another face. Looking back, everything I’d learned through academics, travel and understanding the world prepared me for pageantry in ways I never expected. It was also my final year of eligibility, so I knew I had to give it everything. Thankfully, it all came together.
Very few people get the opportunity to represent India. How does that feel?
It’s one of the greatest honours of my life. Every time someone says I’m representing India at Miss World, I still get goosebumps. You’re no longer just representing yourself. You’re carrying the hopes of an entire country. Sometimes I think about the little girl who played dress up in front of the mirror, and now she gets to wear the India sash on an international stage. It’s surreal, and I never want to take that privilege for granted.
Is there a beauty queen you particularly admire?
Manasa Varanasi. When I was preparing for Miss India, I watched many of her interviews. What impressed me most was how present she was. She never sounded rehearsed. She taught me that confidence isn’t about having perfect answers. It’s about being fully in the moment. That’s something I consciously carried into my own final question and answer round.
Traditionally, many Miss India winners move to Bollywood. Do you see yourself doing the same?
Right now, my entire focus is Miss World. As for Bollywood, I have immense respect for acting as a craft. I don’t think good looks alone make someone an actor. If I ever choose that path, I’d want to train properly and earn my place.
Tell us about your construction business.
I’m still actively involved, and it’s something I care deeply about because it came from a very real need I saw around me. Our work is focused on developing regions like Karwar where there’s enormous potential for thoughtful growth. Construction, for me, isn’t just about buildings. It’s about creating spaces that improve people’s lives and contribute to the community. Even during Miss India, I stayed connected to the business. It’s taught me responsibility, patience and long-term thinking.
Who is your favourite Bollywood actor?
Katrina Kaif. I’ve admired her for years. I love how gracefully she carries herself, and I genuinely enjoy listening to her interviews. She’s thoughtful, disciplined and quietly confident. She’s also been a huge fitness inspiration for me. And yes, we’re both Cancerians, so I’ve always had a soft spot for her.
Do you believe in astrology?
I’m somewhere in the middle. I find it interesting, but I don’t make life decisions based on it. I believe our choices and hard work shape our future far more than the stars do. That said, I do enjoy reading my horoscope once in a while.
If Bollywood happens, which directors would you love to work with?
I don’t think I’m at a stage where I can make a wishlist yet. I’m still a student of the craft. What matters more to me is a good story and a character that stays with people. I’d be happy to work with filmmakers who are passionate about storytelling, whether they’re established legends or exciting new voices. If I ever step into Bollywood, I’d simply want to learn, grow and earn my place.
What advice would you give to girls who dream of becoming Miss India?
Do your homework. Work on your walk, your communication skills and stay informed about the world. But more importantly, build a life beyond pageantry. Develop your interests, stay curious and never stop learning. And above all, stay authentic. Authenticity always stands out.
Any message for the readers of Bollywood Town?
Whatever you do, do it with complete conviction and honesty. Never forget where you came from. Success means so much more when you use it to give back to the place and the people who shaped you.
