From Rajasthan to the Global Stage: Meet Manika Vishwakarma, India’s Newest Beauty Ambassador
In a night full of elegance, talent, and inspiring stories, Manika Vishwakarma was crowned Miss Universe India 2025 during a grand finale event held at Jaipur on August 18. As she received the coveted crown from Rhea Singha, the outgoing Miss Universe India, Manika marked the beginning of a promising journey as she prepares to represent India at the 74th Miss Universe pageant scheduled for November Thailand.
The competition showcased formidable talent, with Tanya Sharma of Uttar Pradesh clinching the first runner-up position, Mehak Dhingra from Haryana as the second runner-up, and Amishi Kaushik rounding out the top contenders as third runner-up. Together, the finalists embodied ambition, grace, and resilience—the qualities celebrated by the pageant.
Who Is Manika Vishwakarma, Miss Universe India 2025?
Born in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, and currently residing in Delhi, Manika is completing her degree in political science and economics—a blend of intellect and ambition. She previously earned the title Miss Universe Rajasthan 2024, making her victorious path one of steady growth and achievement.
But Manika’s appeal goes beyond beauty and brains. She trains in classical dance and boasts a flair for painting, recognized by prestigious institutions such as the JJ School of Arts and the Lalit Kala Academy. Notably, she represented India at the BIMSTEC Sewocon event, an initiative led by the Ministry of External Affairs, speaking volumes about her advocacy and engagement with social causes.
With a heart for advocacy, Manika founded Neuronova, a platform focused on shifting societal perceptions around neurodivergence. Through Neuronova, she champions viewing conditions like ADHD not as deficits but as unique cognitive strengths, advancing conversations about diversity and inclusion in India and beyond.
The Final Answer That Sealed the Crown
During the pressure-filled final round, Manika was asked to choose between prioritizing advocacy for women’s education or immediate economic relief for impoverished families—answering with a perspective that resonated deeply with both judges and the audience.
Her response highlighted the interdependence of these issues: “Women have long been denied fundamental rights, such as education, which leads directly to cycles of poverty. If forced to choose, I would prioritize women’s education because it uplifts individuals, families, and communities alike.” She further explained that investing in education builds a foundation for longer-lasting change, creating empowered futures rather than temporary fixes.
The Road Ahead for Manika Vishwakarma
Winning the national title catapults Manika into an international spotlight. As India’s delegate to Miss Universe 2025, she will bring not only her talents but also her vision of advocacy, empowerment, and cultural pride to a global audience. The months until the pageant will be filled with preparation, training, and engagements as she upholds the hopes of countless supporters.
Her journey symbolizes the modern face of Indian womanhood: confident, compassionate, culturally rooted, and outward-looking.
