In the dazzling city of Jaipur, on August 18, 2025, Manika Vishwakarma seized the Miss Universe India 2025 title, succeeding Rhea Singha in a moment charged with grace and aspiration IndiatimesWikipediamint. From a pool of 48 talented contestants, she emerged victorious, showcasing not just beauty, but brains, character, and conviction IndiatimesWikipediaFinancial Express.
Beyond the Crown: The Woman Behind the Tiara
Roots & Academics
Originally from Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, Manika now calls Delhi home, balancing her role as a beauty queen while finishing her degree in Political Science and Economics IndiatimesWikipediaFinancial Express.
Creative Excellence
More than a student, Manika is a trained classical dancer and gifted painter. Her artistic flair has earned recognition from esteemed institutions like the Lalit Kala Akademi and Sir J. J. School of Art IndiatimesFinancial ExpressWikipedia. She also represented India at BIMSTEC Sewocon, under the Ministry of External Affairs IndiatimesFinancial Express.
Visionary Advocate
At just 22, Manika is already a change-maker. She founded Neuronova, an initiative redefining neurodivergence—including conditions like ADHD—as unique cognitive strengths rather than disorders IndiatimesmintWikipedia.
The Clutch Moment That Sealed It
In the high-stakes question round, Manika faced a powerful choice: advocate women’s education or immediate economic relief for impoverished families. With poise, she chose education, articulating:
“Educating women doesn’t just change one life; it transforms the future of families, communities and nations.” ABP Livehttps://www.oneindia.com/
Her words resonated deeply—with both judges and audience—painting a portrait of compassion powered by foresight.
A Crown for Global Stage
What lies ahead? A high-profile showdown at the 74th Miss Universe pageant, slated for November 21, 2025, in Thailand WikipediaIndiatimes. India has seen only three Miss Universe triumphs so far—Sushmita Sen (1994), Lara Dutta (2000), and Harnaaz Sandhu (2021). Now, all eyes are on Manika to carry forward that legacy with distinction The Logical IndianIndiatimes.
