Manika, a former Miss Universe India 2025 winner crowned in Jaipur on August 18, 2025, gained recognition for her striking looks, poised performances, and elaborate national costume titled “Golden Enlightenment Look,” inspired by Buddha and Indo-Thai cultural heritage. She had previously secured the Miss Universe Rajasthan 2024 title and placed in the top 20 at the national level, winning the “Best in Speech” accolade.
Despite not advancing further, Manika’s presence kept India in the conversation on the global stage. Her performances in the swimsuit round, evening gown segment, and national costume presentation drew praise from fans and social media audiences alike.
Historically, India has celebrated three Miss Universe titleholders who left a mark with their winning answers. Sushmita Sen became the first Indian Miss Universe in 1994, impressing judges with her perspective on the essence of a woman: “Just being a woman is a gift of God that all of us must appreciate. She shows a man what caring, sharing and loving is all about. That’s the essence of being a woman.”
Lara Dutta followed in 2000, setting a record with the highest scores in both the swimsuit and final interview rounds. Responding to protests outside the venue, she said, “Pageants like Miss Universe give young women a platform to forge ahead in fields they desire, be it entrepreneurship, the armed forces, or politics. It strengthens independence and provides a voice to express choices.”
After a 21-year hiatus, Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu won the crown in 2021. When asked about coping with modern pressures on young women, she encouraged self-belief: “Stop comparing yourself with others…come out, speak for yourself, because you are the leader of your life. You are the voice of your own. I believed in myself, and that’s why I’m standing here today.”
While Manika Vishwakarma did not secure the crown, her participation underscores India’s continued presence in the global beauty arena. The nation now looks ahead, hopeful that the next representative will revive the country’s Miss Universe legacy.
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