India’s most glamorous national pageant, Miss Universe India 2025, is set to unfold in the regal city of Jaipur on 18 August 2025. This marks the second edition of the event under the Miss Universe India banner, jointly organized by the Glamanand Group and K Sera Sera Box Office. With 48 contestants from across the country and overseas, the pageant promises a dazzling celebration of culture, elegance, and empowerment.
Held at a heritage venue in Rajasthan’s capital, the event will culminate in the crowning of India’s representative to the 74th Miss Universe Pageant, scheduled for November 2025 in Thailand. The reigning titleholder, Rhea Singha, will pass on the crown to her successor in a ceremony expected to blend traditional Indian aesthetics with global pageantry standards.
Key Highlights from the 2025 Edition
- The grand finale will take place on 18 August 2025 in Jaipur, Rajasthan
- A total of 48 entrants will compete, with 20 placements and several special awards
- Subcontests began on 26 July in Indore, with finalists announced via social media
- Wildcard and NRI contestants were selected through open auditions and online entries
- Multiple withdrawals occurred due to health issues, contract disputes, and cyberbullying concerns
Selection Process and Contestant Diversity
The selection process for Miss Universe India 2025 began in early 2025 through state-level competitions. Winners from these regional events advanced to the national stage, while a final open audition in New Delhi allowed wildcard entries. Additionally, international participants holding Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards were invited to audition online, adding a global dimension to the competition.
Despite the excitement, the pageant faced several withdrawals. Notable exits included Ghazal Gill and Manju Bangalore from the NRI pool, citing health and undisclosed reasons. Tamil Nadu’s wildcard entrants Varshini Murugan and Shivin Ganesan also stepped down, followed by Andleeb Zaidi Merchant and Maruschka Sahiboe, who cited cyberbullying and contractual concerns respectively.
Spotlight on Finalists and Subcontest Winners
Among the top contenders are Manika Vishwakarma, Ravitanaya Sharma, Riddhi Kumar, Saanvi Sharma, and Shambhavi Jha—each earning recognition in preliminary rounds for speech, presentation, and cultural representation. The subcontests have showcased talent in categories such as Best in Speech, Evening Gown, and National Costume, offering a glimpse into the diverse strengths of this year’s cohort.
Jaipur’s Royal Backdrop and Cultural Integration
The choice of Jaipur as host city adds a layer of grandeur to the event. Known for its palaces, forts, and vibrant heritage, Jaipur provides a fitting backdrop for a pageant that celebrates Indian identity on a global stage. Organizers have emphasized cultural integration, with segments featuring Rajasthani textiles, folk music, and traditional crafts.
The venue itself—an architectural marvel—will be transformed into a runway of elegance, with designers from across India contributing to the wardrobe and styling of contestants. The event is expected to draw celebrities, fashion icons, and international media, positioning Jaipur as a rising hub for global fashion and entertainment.
Looking Ahead to Miss Universe 2025
The winner of Miss Universe India 2025 will represent the country at the 74th Miss Universe Pageant in Thailand. With India’s growing influence in global beauty circles, expectations are high for a strong showing. The national winner will undergo intensive training in grooming, public speaking, and international etiquette before heading to the global stage.
The pageant also serves as a platform for advocacy, with contestants championing causes ranging from education and climate action to women’s health and digital safety. Organizers have reiterated their commitment to empowering young women through visibility, mentorship, and social impact.
Sources: Wikipedia, Mid-Day, Glamanand Group, K Sera Sera Box Office.
