Meet Jitesh Singh Deo, the new Mr India!

Can he become the second Indian to bag the Mr World title?

Model Jitesh Singh Deo bagged the title of Peter England Mr India 2017 last night.

Deo, whose journey began in Uttarakhand and brought him to Mumbai via Lucknow and Delhi, said, 'I did not anticipate it, but I had some belief in myself. The power of belief motivates you always. I was speechless when my name was announced. I was blank.'

He dedicated his victory to 'everyone who had faith in my ability to do wonders', adding, 'Dreams do come true.'

Deo succeeds Vishnu Raj Menon.

He has a daunting legacy to live up to when he represents India at Mr World; he and the other contestants were mentored by Rohit Khandelwal, who was the first Indian to become Mr World.

'Today, I am enjoying the moment but tomorrow onwards, a new journey will begin and I have to work hard,' he told the Press Trust of India. 'Winning this title comes with lot of responsibility. The competition [Mr World] is going to be more tough.'

Sixteen contestants from across the country were competing for the title.

Prathamesh Maulingkar bagged the Mr India Supranational title.

The first runner up was Abhi Khajuria and the second runner up was Pavan Rao.

The winners were felicitated by actor Kangana Ranaut.