The former Miss Afghanistan (2003), who became the first Afghan woman to participate in an international beauty pageant since 1974, created a controversy in her native country when she appeared in a red bikini in the 2003 edition of Miss Earth pageant.

Even as traditionalists objected to her appearance, Vida was given a special 'Beauty for a Cause' award at the pageant.

Currently in Mumbai to try her luck in Bollywood, the former beauty queen talks about the whole bikini experience and, while at it, rates our Bollywood bikini-clad ladies.

"I remember, when I walked the ramp in that red swimsuit, I just confidently walked and strongly sent my message to the people around the world. The message simply tried to bring attention to Afghan or women's suppression around the world," Vida said.

"That said, I wore the swimsuit because it was one of the conditions of the beauty pageant. I didn't wear it to show off my body or for any personal reasons.

"Lately, it is a trend in Mumbai to wear a bikini whether for shootings or swimming. It is not very new in Bollywood to flaunt the body by wearing a bikini. It is actually a bonus to be able to wear a bikini and show off your body."

Vida rates Bollywood's bikini babes.

Text: Matthew Schneeberger

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