Harnaaz Sandhu From India Was Crowned Miss Universe 2021 In A Competition In Israel

Acting model Harnaaz Sandhu made history on Monday when she was crowned Miss Universe 2021, defeating competitors from 80 countries, 21 years after India last won the title.

Only two Indian women before Sandhu won the Miss Universe title: actors Sushmita Sen in 1994 and Lara Dutta in 2000. The 70th annual event was held in Eilat, Israel, where a 21-year-old girl won the coveted competition.

The Chandigarh model, who is pursuing a master's degree in public administration, was crowned by her predecessor Andrea Meza from Mexico, who won the competition in 2020. While Nadia Ferreira (22) from Paraguay finished second, Lalela Mswane (24) from South Africa. came third.

During the final round of questions and answers, Sandhu was asked what advice she would give young women on how to deal with the pressure they face today.

"The biggest pressure facing young people today is believing in yourself, knowing that you are unique and that makes you beautiful. Stop comparing yourself to others and let's talk about the most important things that are happening around the world."
"That is what you have to understand. Come out, speak for yourself, because you are the leader of your life, you are your own voice. I believed in me, and that is why I am here today," she said to applause.

Sandhu began her pilgrimage in a parade when she won the Times Fresh Face in 2017, representing Chandigarh at the age of 17. She later won the LIVA Miss Diva Universe 2021 title.

Sandhu has also worked in several Punjabi films, including "Yaara Diyan Poo Baran" and "Bai Ji Kuttange."

The ceremony was moderated by Steve Harvey and featured a performance by American singer JoJo.

The actor and Miss Universe India 2015 Urvashi Rautela, Adamari L Pez, Adriana Lima, Cheslie Kryst, Iris Mittenaere, Lori Harvey, Marian Rivera, and Rena Sofer were on the selection committee.