Jaipur – In a vibrant ceremony held in Jaipur on August 18, 23-year-old Manika Vishwakarma from Rajasthan was crowned Miss Universe India 2025. The event, marked by glamour and cultural celebration, saw Rhea Singha, the 2024 titleholder, pass the crown to Vishwakarma, who will now represent India at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand this November.
Vishwakarma, originally from Sri Ganganagar and currently based in Delhi, is a final-year student pursuing a degree in Political Science and Economics. Her journey in pageantry began with the Miss Universe Rajasthan 2024 title, showcasing her poise and determination. The Jaipur finale featured 48 contestants from across India, with Tanya Sharma from Uttar Pradesh securing the first runner-up position, followed by Mehak Dhingra from Haryana as second runner-up, and Amishi Kaushik as third runner-up.
Beyond her pageant achievements, Vishwakarma is a multifaceted individual with a passion for classical dance and painting, earning recognition from the Lalit Kala Academy and JJ School of Arts. She has also represented India at the BIMSTEC Sewocon, an initiative by the Ministry of External Affairs. As the founder of Neuronova, Vishwakarma advocates for redefining perceptions of neurodivergence, emphasizing conditions like ADHD as unique strengths rather than limitations.
In an interview with ANI, Vishwakarma expressed gratitude for her mentors, family, and friends, stating, “This journey began in my hometown, Ganganagar. I came to Delhi to prepare, and it’s about building confidence and courage. Pageantry is a world that shapes character and inspires others.” Her response during the finale, addressing the prioritization of women’s education over immediate economic aid, highlighted her ability to articulate thoughtful perspectives under pressure.
Organized by the Glamanand Group, the event was judged by notable figures including Nikhil Anand, Urvashi Rautela, and Farhad Samji. As Vishwakarma prepares for the global stage, her story of talent and advocacy continues to inspire.
