May 22: The organizers of the Miss Bhutan Beauty Pageant said the turnout out of participants is poor. The registration began on April 17 but so far only 40 girls have turned up.

The registration forms can be sent by post, through e-mails or filled personally in the MPC Bhutan Entertainment Office in Langjophakha.

Speaking to BBS, Dechen Wangmo, the Public Relations Officer of MPC Bhutan Entertainment said even girls who may be interested, are scared that they would be mocked at if they do not win the beauty contest.

Most of the girl’s falling under the age limit of 17-28 are mostly students and fresh civil servants. As the students have to attend their schools it’s not convenient for them to participate in the pageant. Whereas civil servants will be engaged in their work, so they cannot participant as it might hamper their work.

The last date for registration is on May 31. Only 20 girls will be short listed and groomed for a month by professionals from outside Bhutan. Then the girls will be given orientation by senior government officials. The grand finale will be held in August.