The spotlight has turned on Manika Vishwakarma, a Delhi University student who has recently been crowned Miss Universe India 2025. Her inspiring journey, which began in the modest setting of a college cultural program, is now set to take her to the grand stage of the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand later this year.
Early Spark: College Stage to Confidence
The first signs of her star power emerged three years ago at Delhi University’s Mata Sundari College for Women. During the annual Ms. Freshers event, where students introduced themselves, Manika drew admiration for her charisma and poise.
Faculty member Sirtaj Kaur recalled:
That performance foreshadowed the success that awaited her beyond campus walls.
Academic Excellence with Artistic Flair
Manika’s journey has been one of balance between academics, arts, and ambition. Currently in her final year of a BA Programme in Political Science with Economics, she has also nurtured a love for the arts.
Trained in classical dance and painting, she has exhibited her work at institutions like the Lalit Kala Akademi and the JJ School of Arts, gaining recognition for her creativity. Her upbringing in Delhi, after being born in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, played a pivotal role in shaping her versatility.
Triumph in Pageantry
In 2024, Manika won Miss Universe Rajasthan, which propelled her into the national spotlight. Building on that momentum, she competed in Miss Universe India 2025 and secured the crown.
Her defining moment came during the final Q&A round. Asked whether she would choose women’s education or financial assistance for poor families, she firmly supported education.
Her words struck a chord:
Teachers and Mentors Celebrate
For her teachers, Manika’s success has brought immense pride.
College principal Harpreet Kaur described her as both “humble and hardworking,” noting her active involvement in college activities.
Her advisor Manjot Kaur echoed the sentiment:
“Manika showed extraordinary discipline. She managed academics and cultural engagements with sincerity and never lost focus on her goals.”
Even after she took leave in March to prepare for the pageant, faculty members promised to support her academic catch-up whenever she returned.
Advocating Education as Empowerment
Manika has consistently highlighted women’s education as the cornerstone of empowerment. She believes that ensuring access to quality learning opportunities for girls will create long-term social and economic impact.
This advocacy has already earned her admiration, and it is likely to shape her role as an international representative of India.
Road Ahead: Representing India Globally
Later this year, she will represent India at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand. With her intelligence, elegance, and confidence, Manika aspires to bring home the crown while showcasing India’s progressive voice on the global stage.
A Beacon for Young Aspirants
Manika’s journey from a college fresher contest to an international pageant stage embodies the aspirations of today’s youth. She is not only a symbol of beauty but also a reminder that academic achievement, artistic passion, and social responsibility can go hand in hand.
Her story is a testament to the idea that with discipline and determination, dreams can transform into destiny.