New Delhi: The Miss Universe pageant on Monday crowned Harnaaz Sandhu, a 21-year-old Chandigarh-based model, as its 70th winner.
Actors Lara Dutta had won the title in 2000 and Sushmita Sen was presented the crown in 1994.
Sandhu was presented the crown by Miss Universe 2020 Andrea Meza, from Mexico. It was live streamed globally.
According to CNN Philippines, the 21-year-old stunner bested 79 other candidates during the coronation night held in Eilat, Israel.
Paraguay's Nadia Ferreira was the first runner-up and South Africa's Lalela Mswane was declared the second runner-up.
In the final round, the contestants were asked: "What advice would you give to young women watching on how to deal with the pressures they face today?"
Sandhu replied, "The biggest pressure the youth of today is facing is to believe in themselves. To know that you are unique, that's what makes you beautiful. Stop comparing yourselves with others and let's talk about more important things that's happening worldwide.
"This is what you need to understand. Come out, speak for yourself because you are the leader of your life, you are the voice of your own. I believe in myself and that's why I'm standing here today."
Nadia Ferreira said, "I went through so many harsh situations in my life but I overcame it. I want all women who are watching in this moment to join forces, to do what you are meant to to do because you can do it, no matter the situation, you can overcome it and you can always be victorious."
Lalela Mswane said, "I would implore all young women today to choose courage over comfort every opportunity they get. Since the beginning of time, they had anything in them to achieve anything they wanted. It's unfortunately the world that convinced us we do not." (UNI)
