Chum Darang is more than a name; it is a symbol of grit, empowerment, and determination from the remote northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. From her childhood in the scenic town of Pasighat, Chum has made a name for herself as a model, social activist, entrepreneur, and beauty pageant winner. From a small town in India to the national stage is an inspiring and affective journey.
Chum entered the limelight for the first time via beauty contests. She had represented India at the Miss Asia World 2017 in Lebanon, where she had made the nation proud by earning a spot among the top finalists and bagging the subtitle “Miss Internet.” She has also won a few national titles like Miss Earth India Water 2016, Miss Tiara India International 2017, and Miss Asia World India. With her poise, confidence, and commitment, Chum soon became a familiar name in India’s pageant scene.
But Chum Darang is more than just a beauty queen. Under the glamour is a committed social worker who wants to make a difference in her community. She has worked proactively on women’s rights, education, and menstrual hygiene in Arunachal Pradesh. Her grassroots work, particularly that which involves creating awareness in rural villages, has been widely recognized. Chum utilizes her platform to promote gender equality and encourage young girls to dream big irrespective of their origin.
Adding yet another feather to her cap, Chum is also an entrepreneur at heart. She has started “Cafe Chu,” a small and lively café in her home town Pasighat. It is not only a business but also an effort to popularize local culture and promote tourism. Both the locals and tourists throng this place, representing her efforts towards giving back to society and generating employment opportunities within the region.
Her work and contributions have been recognized globally. In 2021, she was among the select Northeast Indian personalities who featured in Femina, underlining her status as a youth icon and change-maker. Her journey continues to inspire hundreds of young people, particularly from the Northeast, who frequently go underrepresented in mainstream media and national forums.
Chum Darang is a beacon of how brains, beauty, and courage can blend to make an impact. Wherever she finds herself, be it on the pageant platform, the campaign trail, or behind the café counter, she stays rooted to her values and dedicated to her cause of forging a more inclusive and empowered society.
