Manika Vishwakarma Crowned Miss Universe India 2025: Rajasthan’s Star to Shine on Global Stage

India has found its new queen of grace and determination — Manika Vishwakarma, a young talent from Rajasthan, has been crowned Miss Universe India 2025. With this win, she now steps onto the international stage, representing India at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand later this year.

The grand finale was a night of glitter, hope, and tough competition. Manika triumphed over strong contenders — Tanya Sharma from Uttar Pradesh (first runner-up), Mehak Dhingra from Haryana (second runner-up), and Amishi Kaushik (third runner-up) — to bring home the coveted crown. She was crowned by last year’s winner, Rhea Singha, in a moment filled with pride and emotion.

The Question That Won Hearts

During the final Q&A round, Manika faced a powerful question: Would she prefer to advocate for women’s education or extend economic aid to poor families?

With calm confidence, she chose women’s education as her priority, calling it the foundation of lasting change. In her words:

“Educating women doesn’t just change one life, it transforms the future of families, communities, and nations.”

Her thoughtful answer won the judges’ hearts and sealed her victory.

Beyond the Crown: Who is Manika Vishwakarma?

Manika’s journey is as inspiring as her win. Born in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, and currently based in Delhi, she has always balanced academics and creativity with equal passion. She is in the final year of her Political Science and Economics degree and is also trained in classical dance and painting.

Her artistic talent has even been recognised by prestigious institutions like the Lalit Kala Academy and the JJ School of Arts. But Manika is more than just a beauty queen or an artist — she is also a voice for inclusivity. She founded Neuronova, an initiative focused on creating awareness about neurodivergence, including conditions like ADHD.

Gratitude Over Struggle

Unlike many who highlight hardships, Manika chose to shine a light on the support system that shaped her. After her win, she said:

“I always had a supportive family and community, even though I come from a small town. My teachers, my education, and my people made this possible. This crown belongs as much to them as it does to me.”

India’s Miss Universe Legacy

India has a proud history at the Miss Universe stage. The crown has been brought home three times by iconic women:

Sushmita Sen (1994) – the first Indian Miss Universe.

Lara Dutta (2000) – the second, who made India shine at the millennium.

Harnaaz Sandhu (2021) – the third, bringing the crown back after 21 years.

Now, the nation’s eyes are on Manika Vishwakarma, as she carries forward this glorious legacy and prepares to make India proud in Thailand.

A small-town girl with big dreams, a compassionate heart, and an unstoppable spirit — Manika Vishwakarma is all set to script the next golden chapter in India’s Miss Universe journey.