Assessment:

"The best thing about new-age wannabe beauty queens is that they have a definite focus and aim in life. Looking good is not all that they are concerned about," feels one of the judges involved with the contest from the early stages. While the grooming has made a world of difference to the way they carry themselves, some of them have actually evolved as people in the past two weeks. "The best thing is that they are very conscious about what they are getting themselves into. While some want the easy route to fame, others already have very clear stands on the industry's loopholes like the casting couch," adds another judge. But the little red mark on the otherwise clean report card comes in the form of one little issue: "At least 50 per cent of the contestants aren't fluent in English. I think that will act as a deterrent if they want to take up bigger challenges beyond the regional limits."

On track:

nFor the first time since its inception, the Tilottama night will have a theme musical track. Created by the fusion band Class Apart, consisting of Indian classical vocalist Pandit Santanu Bandopadhyay and rock musician Neel, the sound draws inspirations from Indian ragas while incorporating groovy beats in keeping with the young, vibrant and glamorous feel of the event. The group has also created a song called Don't lose your way, which the contestants will ramp walk to on the final day of the contest. The lyrics have been penned by Neel, while both performers have lent their voices to the fusion number.

On quote:

nAmidst the long hours of slog, the only thing on the minds of the contestants now is to strive for crowning glory. "I have to put in my best because if I don't, the others will go ahead and win and I will be left behind," stated one aspirant. The best thing about being in the Tilottama 2005 contest they agree is the chance to get to know themselves better -- strengths, weaknesses and all. "I didn't know what I was capable of till I got selected for the final contest and spent the two weeks here," summed up one.