Miss Pakistan Pageant Attracts Packed Audiences in Canada

Amid high security, the Miss Canada Pakistan pageant went off without a hitch in Toronto with a packed audience and a dozen nervous contestants — defying detractors who claimed it dishonoured Islam. Thirteen women braved earlier religious protest as they took to the stage as contestants of the controversial beauty pageant Saturday night. "We're trying to show strong, independent Pakistani women (who) will show their talents boldly in front of an audience," she said. "Canada is a free country and we have the right to express ourselves freely." Alysha Jamal, 17, of Toronto was crowned the winner.