By Sam.
Guwahati: Rising model and content creator Anaaya Gardner, daughter of Bollywood actor Akshay Anand (born John Gardner), has secured her place as a finalist in Miss Grand India 2025, representing Maharashtra. Stepping into the limelight with both legacy and authenticity, Anaaya’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and personal growth.
“I was born and brought up in Mumbai,” she shared, tracing her roots to the city of dreams. A student of CP Goenka International and RIMS International, Anaaya completed her 12th before taking a gap year to focus on modeling full-time. Today, she works as a freelancing model and Instagram content creator, channeling her creativity and charisma into every project.
Her tryst with modeling began at 17.
“From a young age, I loved being in front of the camera—posing, acting like a total drama queen, and dancing to countless Bollywood numbers,” she recalled fondly. “I landed my first job through BHI and getting paid to do what I love—it was empowering. That was the moment everything started to make sense.”
Coming from a film family, Anaaya credits her parents for their unwavering support.
“My dad has always inspired me. Watching him on screen sparked a fire in me,” she said. “My mom and dad have encouraged me to pursue my dreams. I come from a loving Christian family that’s taught me to dream big and lead with faith.”
This is Anaaya’s first-ever pageant, and her reflections on the experience are deeply personal.
“There’s a mix of nervousness and excitement, but I’m eager to discover what this experience holds. What matters most to me is staying true to who I am. My authenticity is my strength.”
On becoming a finalist, Anaaya said,
“Honestly, I feel like that girl—the one who’s finally seeing her dreams take shape. Every single day of this journey counts, and I just want to give my all.”
Beyond the ramp, Anaaya finds joy in dancing and acting, having trained in Kathak and studied Speech and Drama during her school years.
“Since I was little, I would dance around the house while my dad recorded me—just a tiny Anaaya with bangs, performing like the world was her audience,” she said with a smile.
Representing Maharashtra on a national stage, Anaaya aims to bring her cultural values to life.
“Indian values have always emphasized warmth, kindness, and respect. Through this journey, I want to showcase the heritage and heart of our culture while being unapologetically myself.”
To her home state and supporters, Anaaya extended heartfelt gratitude:
“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your love and support. Every vote, every kind word—I’ve carried it with me. I promise to give it my all and make my state and my nation proud.”
She also credited her transformation to Ritika Ramtri, her coach at The Tiara.
“She believed in me even when I didn’t. Her mentorship helped me find clarity and confidence. I’m eternally grateful.”
Opening up about the hurdles she faced, Anaaya said,
“The biggest challenge was myself. There were times I felt underconfident. But confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you grow into. I’ve been working to become a stronger, more fearless version of myself.”
For the grand finale, Anaaya has been preparing on all fronts—mental, emotional, and physical.
“My faith keeps me grounded. I’ve been training hard, improving my communication, and following a balanced lifestyle. For me, this is more than beauty—it’s about discipline, growth, and staying true to who I am.”
Anaaya Gardner’s journey is a powerful blend of legacy, individuality, and ambition—a story that’s only just begun. As she takes her next steps on the Miss Grand India stage, she carries not only her dreams but also the pride of Maharashtra with her.
