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Miss Universe 2025: The Miss Universe 2025 grand finale took place at the Impact Challenger Hall in Pak Kret, near Bangkok, with delegates from across the world competing for the coveted crown. India’s representative, Manika Vishwakarma, did not make it to the Top 12 this year. After participating in the swimsuit round as part of the Top 30, she advanced to the Top 15 but fell short of entering the next stage. During the swimsuit round, she wore a striking white monokini with gold detailing, confidently walking alongside contestants from China, Thailand, Brazil, Rwanda, Colombia, and Bangladesh. India last won the Miss Universe title in 2021 with Harnaaz Sandhu, following earlier victories by Sushmita Sen in 1994 and Lara Dutta in 2000.

Who Is Manika Vishwakarma?

Aged just 21, Manika Vishwakarma was crowned Miss Universe India in August in Jaipur. Originally from Rajasthan and currently based in Delhi, she is pursuing a degree in Political Science and Economics at the University of Delhi. Her achievements include titles such as Best in Personal Interview and Miss Beautiful Smile at the Jaipur pageant. Before her national win, she was also crowned Miss Universe Rajasthan in 2024. Manika is a trained classical dancer, an accomplished painter, and a former NCC graduate. She has represented India at events such as the BIMSTEC Sewocon under the Ministry of External Affairs. Beyond pageantry, she founded Neuronova, an initiative aimed at promoting awareness about neurodivergence, particularly ADHD, and encouraging society to view such conditions through a more accepting lens. Her national costume this year, a gold sculptural gown with dramatic headgear, paid tribute to the ‘sacred origins of Buddhism in India’ and the moment Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment.

Also Read: Miss Universe 2025 Winner: Mexico’s Fatima Bosch Wins The Crown; India’s Manika Vishwakarma Exits In Top 12

Miss Universe 2025: Top 12 Finalists 

The Top 12 contestants for Miss Universe 2025 include delegates from Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Guadeloupe, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, China, the Philippines, Thailand, Malta, and Côte d’Ivoire. Their strong performances in the swimsuit and evening gown rounds secured their place in the competition’s next stage. This year’s pageant has also drawn widespread attention due to several controversies, including public disagreements, emotional moments from the host, and unexpected exits. Among the most talked-about incidents was the walkout by Miss Universe 2025's Fatima Bosch, who left after being publicly reprimanded by host Nawat Itsaragrisil during a meeting. She later described the moment as one last hurrah, while addressing the situation.

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Miss Universe 2026 Announcement

At the Miss Universe pageant, 29 contestants are chosen for the swimsuit round from over 120 global participants, with the 30th selected by public voting. After the Top 30 compete, eliminations decide the Top 12, who proceed to the evening gown round. Only the Top 5 then advance to the crucial Q&A segment, which ultimately determines the winner, first runner-up, and second runner-up. The theme for Miss Universe 2025 is ‘The Power of Love’, highlighting unity, empowerment, and compassion. Despite her exit, Manika’s journey has been widely appreciated for her elegance, intelligence, and advocacy work. It has also been confirmed that the Miss Universe 2026 pageant will take place in Puerto Rico, marking its special silver jubilee edition.

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