Kathmandu:

A diamond in its rough state does not look much different from other ordinary stones or even a mound of earth. However, after it is cut and polished, we have jewels like the Kohinoor.

The 19 finalists of the Dabur Vatika Miss Nepal 2007 contest is going through this cutting and polishing stage under the able guidance of experts headed by none other than the indomitable Rachana Gurung Sharma. The training is vital as it prepares the contestants for anything in the tough road ahead. From sharpening their wits to adding that veneer of poise, the training turns these rough diamonds into the jewels that they are destined to become.

Sharma, who is also the official choreographer of the pageant, is giving them pointers on not only etiquette, but also on stage presence.

The experts from the New Era Career Development Centre, who have been involved from the very first Miss Nepal Pageant in 1994, are responsible for the girls’ personality development.

New Era’s Mamata Thapa said, “The contestants are dedicated and determined to do something.” She added they are focusing on the question answer session so that the girls are comfortable with the pattern.

Former Miss Nepal Shweta Singh is giving grooming sessions. Special classes have also been given by LP Bhanu Sharma, Principal of Apex College on self management, and Ranjit Acharya on success mantra.

Dabur Vatika Miss Nepal 2007 is being organised by Hidden Treasure in association with JCI, and the grand finale is scheduled for April 7.