New Delhi, December 17: The Indian fashion and pageant world has lost a true pioneer. Meher Castelino, who was crowned the first-ever Femina Miss India in 1964, passed away at the age of 81. Her death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in India’s beauty and fashion history.

The Miss India Organisation confirmed the sad news in an emotional tribute on social media. In their post, they shared, "With deep sorrow, we mourn the loss of Meher Castelino, Femina Miss India 1964 and the first-ever to hold the title. A true trailblazer, she broke barriers, set new standards, and paved the way for countless women to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Her legacy endures through the doors she opened and the dreams she made possible."