Miss Universe India 2025 - an artist, scholar, and advocate reshaping beauty standards with bold vision and social impact
Manika Vishwakarma – India’s beauty pageant scene has a new star, and she’s not just dazzling with her looks, she’s redefining what it means to wear a crown. Manika Vishwakarma, the newly crowned Miss Universe India 2025, is a force of intellect, artistry, and advocacy. From the heart of Rajasthan to the global stage in Thailand, her journey is a testament to grit, grace, and groundbreaking ambition.
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From Ganganagar to Glory: The Rise of a Queen
Manika Vishwakarma hails from Sri Ganganagar, a town nestled in the northern reaches of Rajasthan. Raised in a modest yet supportive environment, she credits her family, teachers, and community for shaping her into the woman she is today. Currently based in Delhi, Manika is in her final year pursuing a dual degree in Political Science and Economics, a rare academic combination in the pageant world.
Her journey to the crown began with regional wins, including the Miss Universe Rajasthan 2024 title. But it was her performance at the national finale in Jaipur that truly captivated the judges and audience alike. With poise, eloquence, and a clear vision for social change, she outshone contestants from across the country, including runner-ups Tanya Sharma (Uttar Pradesh), Mehak Dhingra (Haryana), and Amishi Kaushik.
Beauty Beyond the Runway: Manika Vishwakarma – Artist, Dancer, Advocate
Manika’s talents extend far beyond the pageant stage. She is a trained classical dancer and an accomplished painter, having received accolades from prestigious institutions like the Lalit Kala Academy and JJ School of Arts. Her artistic sensibilities bring depth to her public persona, allowing her to connect with audiences on a cultural and emotional level.
But perhaps most compelling is her advocacy work. Manika is the founder of Neuronova, an initiative aimed at reshaping public perception of neurodivergence. Through this platform, she promotes awareness around conditions like ADHD, encouraging society to view them as cognitive strengths rather than limitations. Her advocacy is rooted in empathy and education, making her a standout figure in a field often criticized for superficiality.
The Crown as a Catalyst: A Platform for Change
In her final Q&A round at the Miss Universe India 2025 pageant, Manika was asked to choose between advocating for women’s education or providing economic aid to poor families. Her response was both thoughtful and powerful: “Educating women doesn’t just change one life, it transforms the future of families, communities, and nations.” This answer not only won her the crown but also spotlighted her commitment to long-term societal impact.
Manika views the Miss Universe platform not as a personal achievement, but as a responsibility. “This crown is not just mine,” she said in her victory speech. “It represents every young woman who dares to dream beyond limitations.” Her mission is clear: to use her visibility to champion education, equal opportunity, and mental health awareness across India and beyond.
Eyes on Thailand: India’s Fourth Crown in Sight?
India has a storied history at the Miss Universe pageant, with three winners, Sushmita Sen (1994), Lara Dutta (2000), and Harnaaz Sandhu (2021), bringing home the coveted title. Manika Vishwakarma now joins this elite lineage, preparing to represent India at the 74th Miss Universe competition in Bangkok this November.
Her role models include Sushmita Sen and her own mother, both of whom she credits for instilling values of integrity and action. “They taught me that strength isn’t just about what you say, it’s about what you do,” she shared in a post-win interview.
As she steps onto the global stage, Manika carries not just the hopes of a nation, but the promise of a new kind of beauty queen, one who blends intellect, artistry, and activism into a singular, powerful presence.
Manika Vishwakarma’s story is more than a pageant win, it’s a narrative of transformation, purpose, and possibility. Whether she brings home India’s fourth Miss Universe crown or not, she’s already won the hearts of millions. And in doing so, she’s proving that true beauty lies in the courage to lead, the wisdom to uplift, and the passion to make a difference.
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