The much-awaited 72nd edition of the Miss Universe pageant is approaching, and anticipation is growing for the announcement of the new Miss Universe. Scheduled to take place in El Salvador on November 18, this international beauty competition will feature participants from 90 countries, all competing for the prestigious title currently held by R'Bonney Gabriel from the United States. Organizers have disclosed that the upcoming Miss Universe will be selected through a series of events, encompassing personal statements, comprehensive interviews, and presentations in evening gowns and swimwear.
This year, at the 72nd Miss Universe competition, India will be represented by Shweta Sharda. Emerging vistorious at the Miss Diva Universe title, Shweta, a 22-year-old model and dancer originally from Chandigarh, relocated to Mumbai with her mother at the age of sixteen. She successfully completed her undergraduate studies at the Indira Gandhi National Open University. Shweta is not only recognised for her beauty pageant achievements but has also made notable appearances on various popular TV reality shows, including Dance Deewane, Dance Plus, and Dance India Dance. In addition to her participation in reality programs, she has earned recognition as a choreographer, securing a contract with Jhalak Dikhlaja.
At the National Costume Show of the Miss Universe Pageant, Shweta represented Indian culture and heritage in a brown co-ord set paired with a unique headgear. When Shweta began her walk, she was introduced as a "resilient modern India who stands tall with grace. The host contined to say, "Her diversity and integrity and strength are provided in this armoured goddess look. Powerful shoulders highlight the feminine form and the lotus bears the religious symbol."
Shweta made a few classical dance movies on the ramp with all her grace and finally ended her walk with a 'namaskar'.
This year's Miss Universe competition holds special significance, representing a historic turning point for the organisation as it embraces transformative changes, emphasising a commitment to advancement and inclusivity. Pioneering a new era at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant are Maria Camila Avella Montañez of Colombia and Michelle Cohn of Guatemala, breaking barriers as the first mothers and married women to grace the competition.
Their involvement signals a profound shift, challenging stereotypes and redefining the perception of a Miss Universe contestant. Additionally, Rikkie Valerie Kollé from the Netherlands and Marina Machete from Portugal are set to make history as the second and third transgender women to participate in Miss Universe, following the footsteps of Angela Ponce, who represented Spain in 2018. Adding to the historic moments is Pakistan's inaugural entry into the Miss Universe pageant, with Erica Robin set to represent the country.