Miss Universe 2025: Mexico's Fatima Bosch takes the crown
The 74th edition of the Miss Universe pageant has concluded with Mexico's Fatima Bosch taking home the coveted crown. Praveenar Singh from host country Thailand became the first runner-up. The event saw India's Manika Vishwakarma making it to the Top 12 but not advancing further. This year's competition was themed "The Power of Love" and included contestants from over 100 countries.
Vishwakarma's stunning performance and elimination
Vishwakarma, from Rajasthan's Ganganagar, wowed the audience with her National Costume round outfit. The golden attire was inspired by Buddhism's origins in India and represented Prince Siddhartha's enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya. Despite her impressive performance, she was eliminated in the Top 12 round.
Miss Universe 2025: A platform for women empowerment
The Miss Universe Organization, founded in 1952, aims to empower women worldwide through leadership, social impact, and personal development. This year's event included interviews, personal stories, evening gowns, National Costume round, and the swimwear rounds.
Controversies and challenges faced by Miss Universe 2025
This year's Miss Universe pageant was not without its share of controversies. Two judges, composer Omar Harfouch and French soccer manager Claude Makelele, resigned over allegations of rigging and conflicts of interest. The organization denied these claims, reiterating its commitment to fair and transparent judging. Miss Mexico also faced an upset when she was called a "dumbhead" by Nawat Itsaragrisil, the director of Miss Universe Thailand. Bosch and many fellow contestants staged a walkout in protest, leading Itsaragrisil to apologize.
The legacy of Miss Universe India
India has a rich history in the Miss Universe pageant, having won the title three times. Sushmita Sen (1994), Lara Dutta (2000), and Harnaaz Sandhu (2021) are the only Indian winners so far. Last year, Rhea Singha from Gujarat represented India at Miss Universe 2024 but did not make it to the Top 12.