Who is Manika Vishwakarma? Meet the Beauty Queen Representing India at Miss Universe 2025

India's latest representative at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant, Manika Vishwakarma, is all set to shine on the global stage in Thailand. The 22-year-old from Rajasthan was crowned Miss Universe India earlier this year and is now preparing to compete among the world's best at the 74th Miss Universe competition.

Rising Star from Rajasthan

Hailing from Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan, Manika currently lives in Delhi, where she is completing her final year of studies in Political Science and Economics at Delhi University. Her journey from a small-town student to India's face at an international beauty platform reflects her determination and intellect.

Manika won the Miss Universe India 2025 crown on August 18 in Jaipur, receiving the title from Rhea Singha, Miss Universe India 2024. Before achieving this national recognition, she held the title of Miss Universe Rajasthan, which marked the beginning of her steady rise in the pageant circuit.

A Voice of Conviction

During the national finals, Manika captured attention with her confident and thoughtful answers. When asked whether she would prioritise women's education or provide financial aid to low-income families, she chose education, saying it has "the transformative power to break the cycle of poverty."

Her response impressed the judges and resonated with many who saw in her a blend of intellect and compassion, qualities that make her a strong contender on the international stage.

Beyond the Runway

Apart from her pageant success, Manika is also deeply involved in the arts. A trained classical dancer and painter, her works have been recognised by the Lalit Kala Akademi and the JJ School of Art.

She is also the founder of Neuronova, an initiative aimed at promoting awareness about neurodivergence and conditions such as ADHD. Through this platform, she works to create more inclusive conversations around mental and neurological diversity.

India's Legacy at Miss Universe

The upcoming Miss Universe 2025 will take place on November 21 at the Impact Challenger Hall in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, Thailand. Current Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig of Denmark will crown her successor that night.

India enters the competition with a proud legacy, having previously produced three Miss Universe winners: Sushmita Sen in 1994, Lara Dutta in 2000, and Harnaaz Sandhu in 2021. With her poise, intellect, and advocacy, Manika Vishwakarma now carries the hopes of millions eager to see the crown return to India.