Mumbai, Aug 21 (IANS): She was all of 18 when she participated in the Miss India pageant and won it. Actress Juhi Chawla, now 47, is in awe of the "amazing things" that happen during one's youth.

"I took part in the Miss India contest at the age of 18. When I look back at it, I wonder what I was thinking at that time. I realised that truly, I didn't think at all before taking such a decision. So, amazing things happen when you're young," Juhi said here at an event to encourage the country's youth.

Juhi's victory at the Miss India pageant opened the doors for her in the film industry. She went on to do films like "Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak", "Darr" and "Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke".

"Youth is that beautiful period in life where there is enthusiasm, passion, where they jump into something and then think about it. And as they grow older, they think first and perhaps not jump at all," said Juhi, who will soon be seen in educational drama "Chalk N Duster".