Parvathy Omanakuttan finishes second

India's Parvathy Omanakuttan was adjudged the first runner-up at the Miss World pageant here Saturday evening, with the crown going to Miss Russia.

Parvathy impressed the jury with her looks and quick wit and was one the five finalists out of the 109 contestants at the Sandton Convention Center. However, she was finally beaten by Miss Russia.

Miss Trinidad and Tobago was named the second runner-up. The others in contention in the final five were Miss South Africa and Miss Angola.

India had high hopes on 21-year-old Parvathy to win the crown that last came to the country in 2000.

India boasts of Miss Worlds like Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999) and Priyanka Chopra (2000).

Tanya glides into tollywood

Tollywood seems to be the chosen destination for famed Bollywood models to begin their acting careers. Close on the heels of a bunch of model-turned-actors, Tanya Vakil, former Miss India runner-up, is the new find.

"Glamour was just part of the meaty role I bagged. I enjoyed doing the film,” says the popular model who has endorsed numerous brands alongside stars like Saif and Madhavan. "Modelling provided me a wider platform and immense exposure as well," reveals the actress, who is game for classy glam roles. Another interesting facet of her was anchoring a show titled Love Bites on Zoom.

Being single how did she manage to answer love queries? "I just relied on the script. It was great interacting with people," she smiles. And, is the spunky actress ready for swimsuits ala Bollywood actresses? "I haven't given it a thought," she chuckles. "I am awaiting exciting roles in Tollywood and Bollywood," reveals the starlet. Are the makers listening?