Beauty beyond Adversity: Exploring the Effects and Challenges of Climate Change on Married Women Beauty Pageant Participants

Climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including women. While beauty pageants are often criticized for objectifying women, they also serve as platforms for empowerment and self-expression. This study explores the impact of perceived climate change on married women participating in beauty pageants, examining their challenges in balancing pageant participation with climate-related stressors. Using qualitative methods, the research focuses on 20 contestants from the 2023 Milestone Pageant Organisation in Lucknow. Key findings highlight disparities in access to beauty resources between urban and rural contestants, the adaptation of ecofriendly beauty practices, and the resilience strategies employed to cope with environmental challenges. The study underscores the need for climate-resilient pageant initiatives, support networks, and inclusive policies. By shedding light on the intersection of climate change and the beauty pageant industry, this research contributes to understanding gendered climate impacts and promoting sustainability within the field.