The much-awaited 72nd edition of the Miss Universe pageant is fast approaching, and anticipation is rising for the announcement of the new Miss Universe. The international beauty pageant, taking place in El Salvador on November 18, will feature contestants from 90 countries competing for the coveted title currently held by R’Bonnie Gabriel of the United States. Organizers have revealed that the upcoming Miss Universe will be selected through a series of events, including personal statements, extensive interviews and presentations in evening gowns and swimwear.
This year, Shweta Sharda will represent India in the 72nd Miss Universe contest. Emerging victorious from the Miss Diva Universe title, 22-year-old model and dancer Shweta, originally from Chandigarh, moved to Mumbai with her mother at the age of sixteen. He successfully completed his graduation from Indira Gandhi National Open University. Shweta is not only recognized for her beauty pageant achievements, but she has also played notable roles in various popular TV reality shows including Dance Deewane, Dance Plus and Dance India Dance. Apart from her participation in reality programs, she has gained recognition as a choreographer by securing a contract with Jhalak Dikhhlaja.
At the National Costume Show of the Miss Universe pageant, Shweta represented Indian culture and heritage in a brown co-ord set with a unique headgear. When Shweta began her walk, she was introduced as “resilient modern India, standing up for decency.” The host further added, “Her diversity and integrity and strength are rendered in this armored goddess look. The powerful shoulders highlight the feminine form and the lotus bears religious symbolism.”
Shweta did some classical dance moves on the ramp with all her grace and finally ended her walk with ‘Namaskar’.
This year’s Miss Universe pageant holds special significance, representing a historic turning point for the organization as it embraces transformational changes, emphasizing a commitment to advancement and inclusivity. Ushering in a new era at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant are Colombia’s María Camila Avella Montanez and Guatemala’s Michelle Cohan, who are breaking barriers as the first mothers and married women to grace the pageant.
Her participation signals a profound change, challenges stereotypes and redefines the perception of a Miss Universe contestant. Additionally, following in the footsteps of Angela Ponce, who represented Spain in 2018, Netherlands’ Ricci Valerie Colle and Portugal’s Marina Machete are set to make history as the second and third transgender women to compete at Miss Universe. Pakistan’s first entry into the Miss Universe pageant, with Erica Robin set to represent the country.
