17 December,2025 01:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: Miss India Organisation on Instagram
India's first Miss India and celebrated fashion journalist Meher Castelino has passed away at 81. She is survived by her son, Karl, daughter-in-law, Nisha, and her daughter, Christina.
The former mid-day columnist, who was crowned Femina Miss India in 1964, also went on to build a legacy in fashion journalism, publishing her first article in Eve's Weekly in 1973, shared the Mumbai Press Club in a statement.
The statement further said, "A true pioneer of fashion journalism in India, her work appeared in nearly 160 national and international publications, shaping the country's understanding of fashion over generations. Throughout her illustrious career, Meher was invited to Germany, France, Italy, the USA, South Africa, Turkey, the Netherlands, and Singapore to attend haute couture shows, interview renowned designers, and bring global perspectives to Indian audiences."
It further said, "She also served as the official fashion writer for Lakmé Fashion Week since 2006, chronicling its journey with insight, depth, and elegance. Her immense contribution to journalism, her unwavering passion for the craft, and her warm, generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and worked with her."
In a social media post, Femina Miss India (@missindiaorg) shared, "With profound sorrow, we mourn the passing of Meher Castelino, Femina Miss India 1964 and the very first Femina Miss India. A true trailblazer, she opened doors, set standards and laid the foundation for generations of women to dream fearlessly. A pioneer in the truest sense, her legacy lives on through the journeys she made possible and the dreams she helped shape. Our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones. May her soul rest in peace and her legacy forever shine."
They further said, "Our late Femina Miss India 1964, Meher Castelino, embodied an unmatched aura of grace, dignity and quiet strength. A true trailblazer of her time, she not only made her mark in the fashion industry but also paved the way for generations of women who followed on this very stage. Her presence redefined elegance, and her journey became a beacon of inspiration for countless dreams. Her legacy lives on through the values she stood for. We honour Meher ji by carrying forward her quiet grace, resilience and timeless elegance in everything we do."
