Mumbai, Dec 20: Meher Castelino, India’s first Miss India and a pioneering fashion journalist, passed away on Wednesday. She was 81. She is survived by her son Karl, daughter-in-law Nisha, and daughter Kristina.

Born in Mumbai, Castelino rose to national prominence in 1964 after winning the Femina Miss India title, becoming the first woman to hold the crown. She later represented India at the Miss Universe and Miss United Nations pageants. At a time when beauty contests were still a new concept in the country, her victory was seen as a significant cultural milestone.

Castelino went on to build a distinguished career in journalism, beginning in 1973 with the publication of her first article in Eve’s Weekly. She later became a full-time fashion journalist and syndicated columnist. Over the decades, her work appeared in nearly 160 national and international newspapers and magazines, earning her a reputation as one of India’s most influential fashion and lifestyle writers.

Widely regarded as a trailblazer, Castelino was among the first Indian journalists to approach fashion as a serious industry rather than focusing solely on celebrity glamour. Her writing explored craftsmanship, branding, consumer behavior, and market trends, and was noted for its depth, historical context, and sharp industry insight. Through her columns, she chronicled India’s evolution from boutique fashion to global runway recognition. She also authored several books on fashion design.