Contestants showed off their heritage at the second annual Miss UT Asia Pageant hosted by the Asian American Culture Committee Tuesday.

Thirteen contestants competed in areas of cultural talent, dress and knowledge. These contestants were chosen for their diversity and represented different cultures from across Asia.

"We chose girls who are very aware of their culture, independent, strong and confident," said Apurva Sarathy, chair of the Asian American Culture Committee.

Last year, it was estimated that 500 people attended the competition, and this year an estimated 300 people attended.

"We want to create cultural awareness while emphasizing strong educational undertones," Sarathy said.

The evening centered around a theme of fostering a greater awareness of Asian heritage with contestants displaying pride in their inner quality.

"I wanted a chance to display my Asian culture. I don't feel that Asian culture is displayed well enough to the greater UT community," said biology freshman Nitu Gill, who competed in the pageant.

The event was designed not just to give Asian students the chance to celebrate their cultures, but to share them with their fellow students as well.

"I think there are so many cultures across America, and we should all share in that," Gill said. "Usually when I go to Asian events, the only people there are Asian. It makes me really happy non-Asians come out to experience our culture, too."

The evening started off with an introduction of the contestants and then moved into the cultural dress portion of the pageant.

The talent portion allowed girls to show off their talent, both general and culture-specific, from violin solos to cultural songs and dances.

The evening ended with a question portion for each of the contestants and the crowning of Sireesha Chirala, a government junior, as Miss UT Asia 2008.

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