Harnaaz Sandhu is the new Miss Universe!
At the 70th World Beauty pageant in Israel, a new Miss Universe was chosen. 21-year-old Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss India, has been chosen Miss Universe for 2021.
Actor and model Harnaaz Sandhu made history on December 13 as she was crowned Miss Universe 2021. Only two Indians before Sandhu have won the title of Miss Universe— actors Sushmita Sen in 1994 and Lara Dutta in 2000.
Sandhu left behind 79 girls from different countries. The title of first runner-up was won by Miss Paraguay Nadia Ferreira, while Miss South Africa Lalu Mswane was chosen as the second runner-up. The Chandigarh-based model, who is pursuing her master's degree in public administration, was crowned by her predecessor Andrea Meza of Mexico, who won the pageant in 2020.
Harnaaz Sandhu presented herself at the competition as a strong advocate for the empowerment of women in the world. She works as an actress, and her biggest inspiration is the famous Priyanka Chopra. In her free time she practices yoga, dancing, cooking, horseback riding and she likes to play chess.
During the final question and answer round, Ms. Sandhu was asked what advice would she give to young women on how to deal with the pressure they face today.
"The biggest pressure the youth of today is facing is to believe in themselves, to know that you are unique and that's what makes you beautiful. Stop comparing yourselves with others and let's talk about more important things that are happening worldwide."
She also said: “I am immensely grateful to the Almighty, my parents, and the Miss India Organization for guiding and supporting me throughout. Loads of love to everyone who prayed and wished the crown for me."
Sandhu was the bookmaker’s top favorite for the Miss Universe title. She is already well known in the world of modeling because she is the last winner of LIVA Miss Diva, and she is crowned Miss India, which is one of the most prestigious awards. India last won the Miss Universe pageant in 1994 thanks to Sushmita Sen.
The top 16 include representatives from America, South Africa, Venezuela, Paraguay, the Philippines, Aruba, India, America, Great Britain, Japan, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Panama, Singapore, Colombia, and France.
