Meher Castelino, India’s first Miss India and a noted fashion journalist, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 81. She is survived by her son Karl, daughter-in-law Nisha, and daughter Christina.
Born in Mumbai, Castelino rose to national prominence in 1964 when she won the Femina Miss India title, becoming the first woman to hold the crown and represent India at international pageants such as Miss Universe and Miss United Nations.
She later built a distinguished career in fashion journalism. Her writing journey began in 1973 with Eve’s Weekly, after which she became a full-time fashion journalist and syndicated columnist. Over the decades, her work appeared in nearly 160 national and international newspapers and magazines, establishing her as one of India’s pioneering voices in fashion media.
Castelino authored several books, including Manstyle, Fashion Kaleidoscope and Fashion Musings, offering insights into trends, craftsmanship and the evolving fashion industry. She also served as the official fashion writer for major events such as Lakme Fashion Week and was a judge and speaker at fashion institutes and industry awards.
Her journalism spanned fashion, beauty, lifestyle, travel and the business of fashion. Known for treating fashion as an industry rather than mere glamour, she wrote analytical pieces on branding, consumer trends and design heritage, while mentoring young designers and writers. Her work remains an important chronicle of India’s journey from boutique fashion to global runway recognition.