Manika Vishwakarma, a 22-year-old hailing from Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, was crowned Miss Universe India 2025 at a grand ceremony held in Jaipur. She will represent India at the 74th Miss Universe competition in Thailand later this year.
The crown was passed to her by last year’s winner, Rhea Singha. Manika stood out among 48 contestants, with Tanya Sharma from Uttar Pradesh finishing as first runner-up and Mehak Dhingra from Haryana as second runner-up. Manika’s win celebrates not just beauty but also her advocacy for women’s education and neurodivergence awareness.
Manika Vishwakarma: Journey, Accomplishments, and Vision
Originally from Rajasthan’s Sri Ganganagar and currently residing in Delhi, Manika is completing her final year of a Political Science and Economics degree. She was previously crowned Miss Universe Rajasthan 2024 and is known for her multifaceted talents including classical dance and painting, with honours from the Lalit Kala Academy and JJ School of Arts.
As the founder of Neuronova, she advocates awareness around neurodivergence, including ADHD, aiming to change societal perceptions by presenting them as unique cognitive strengths rather than disabilities. After winning, Manika expressed gratitude to her supportive family, teachers and community, attributing her success to the encouragement she received rather than struggles alone. Her powerful answer in the finale emphasised the transformative impact of women’s education in breaking poverty cycles and uplifting communities.
Significance of the Title and Representation on the Global Stage
Winning Miss Universe India places Manika in a prestigious lineage of Indian women who have made a mark internationally. India boasts three Miss Universe winners: Sushmita Sen (1994), Lara Dutta (2000), and Harnaaz Sandhu (2021). Now, Manika prepares to carry forward this legacy as she competes in the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand this November.
The title is not only a recognition of beauty but an opportunity to become a global ambassador for social causes and cultural exchange. The pageant organisers and judges praised her combination of intellect, charisma, and social consciousness as key qualities making her an ideal representative for India.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian applauds Manika Vishwakarma’s inspiring victory that elegantly blends grace, intellect, and advocacy. This achievement illustrates how modern platforms like beauty pageants can spotlight not only aesthetics but also meaningful social impact, empowerment, and cultural pride.
Celebrating young women who use their voice and talent to champion causes such as education and neurodiversity encourages a more inclusive and compassionate society.
