Chandigarh’s 21 year old model Harnaaz Sandhu was crowned Miss Universe 2021 on Monday. Earlier, 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." (Inputs from UNI)
