Jerusalem: Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu, 21, a Chandigarh-based model and actress, was crowned Miss Universe, bringing back to India the prestigious title after over two decades.
Sandhu burst into tears as she was being crowned by Miss Universe 2020 Andrea Meza, from Mexico.
Expressing pride in India's win, she screamed "Chak de phatte India!" (a Punjabi clarion call to succeed).
In 2000, Lara Dutta was the last to win the crown. Sushmita Sen won the crown in 1994.
The Indian beauty queen bested 79 other contenders for the crown at a coronation night held in Eilat, Israel.
She won the judges over with her witty answer to a question related to global challenge against climate change.
"My heart breaks to see how nature is going through innumerable problems, and it is all due to our irresponsible behaviour. I feel that this is the time to take action and talk less because every action of ours can either kill or save nature.
"Prevent and protect is better than repent and repair, and this is what I would like to convince you today," she said.
In the final round, asked: "What advice would you give to young women watching on how to deal with the pressures they face today?"
Sandhu said, "The biggest pressure the youth of today is facing is lack of belief 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."
First runner up, Nadia Ferreira of Paraguay, said, "I went through so many harsh situations in my life but I overcame them. 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 from South Africa, the second runners up, 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)
