From the classrooms of Delhi University to the global stage, Manika Vishwakarma has carved an inspiring path. The 22-year-old student, once celebrated at her college’s Ms. Freshers event, is now the proud winner of the Miss Universe India 2025 title and will soon represent the country at the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand.
Roots in Rajasthan, Dreams in Delhi
Born in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, and raised in Delhi, Manika always displayed a creative spark. She is in the final year of her BA Programme in Political Science with Economics at Mata Sundari College for Women, Delhi University.
Apart from academics, Manika explored her artistic side through classical dance and painting. Her artwork earned recognition from notable cultural bodies like the Lalit Kala Akademi and the JJ School of Arts, showcasing her versatility beyond the classroom.
The First Spotlight: Ms. Freshers Event
Manika’s confidence was first noticed during her college’s annual Ms. Freshers program, a stage where new students introduced themselves. Teachers still remember how she stood apart from her peers.
“She wasn’t just beautiful; she was magnetic, confident, and graceful,” recalled Sirtaj Kaur, her cultural advisor at the college.
This early performance foreshadowed her rise, proving that her charisma extended beyond academics.
Rising Through Pageantry
Her journey into beauty pageants began with her triumph at the Miss Universe Rajasthan 2024 contest. That crown became a stepping stone to the national level, where she competed among the country’s most talented participants.
At the Miss Universe India 2025 competition, Manika impressed both the judges and the audience with her elegance and thoughtful responses. In the final round, when asked to choose between advocating for women’s education or extending financial aid to poor families, she firmly chose education.
“Educating women doesn’t just change one life,” she explained. “It transforms families, communities, and nations.”
Her clarity of vision, combined with poise, helped her secure the Miss Universe India crown.
A Student Remembered for Discipline and Grace
Back at college, her win has filled the institution with pride.
Principal Harpreet Kaur described her as “a brilliant student who was humble and kind, always leaving a mark with her dedication.”
Her student advisor, Manjot Kaur, highlighted her balance between studies and extracurriculars:
“Manika managed academics and cultural activities with sincerity. Her determination was evident in everything she did.”
Since March 2025, Manika has been on leave to pursue her dream. Teachers have assured that she will receive full academic support once she resumes classes.
Championing Women’s Empowerment
What distinguishes Manika from many others is her strong advocacy for women’s education. She firmly believes that empowering women with knowledge has a multiplier effect on society. Her views reflect her personal journey, where balancing education with passion gave her both strength and direction.
This commitment to social causes adds depth to her personality, turning her into not just a beauty queen but also a role model.
Preparing for the Global Stage
Now crowned Miss Universe India 2025, Manika is gearing up to represent India at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand. Competing with contestants from across the globe, she carries the hopes of millions of Indians.
Her journey illustrates how confidence, education, and discipline can elevate a young woman from a college auditorium to an international platform.
An Inspiration for Young Aspirants
Manika’s story resonates with countless young women who aspire to achieve excellence while balancing academics and personal ambitions. From a Delhi University fresher to a national beauty queen, her transformation is a testament to determination and self-belief.
For her college and peers, she will always be a shining example. For the nation, she embodies the modern Indian woman ambitious, graceful, and socially aware.