The journey of Manika Vishwakarma, a Delhi University student who has just been crowned Miss Universe India 2025, is one of talent, determination, and discipline. From excelling in academics to performing on stage and now preparing for the Miss Universe competition in Thailand, her story is inspiring young Indians across the country.
Early Background and Education
Originally from Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, Manika was raised in Delhi, where she pursued her schooling and later enrolled at Mata Sundari College for Women (Delhi University). She is currently in her final year of a BA Programme in Political Science and Economics.
A lover of the arts, she has formal training in classical dance and has made her mark as a painter. Her artistic achievements have been acknowledged by renowned institutions like the Lalit Kala Akademi and the JJ School of Arts.
The Turning Point: A Fresher’s Stage
Her college journey took a defining turn during the Ms. Freshers contest held at Mata Sundari College. Among nervous newcomers, Manika stood out with her grace and confidence.
Faculty member Sirtaj Kaur, who noticed her during the event, recalled:
This moment gave a glimpse of the poised personality that would eventually shine on the national stage.
Climbing the Pageant Ladder
Manika entered the world of pageantry with determination. In 2024, she won Miss Universe Rajasthan, a regional title that introduced her to the larger world of competitive beauty contests.
The next year, she participated in Miss Universe India 2025, where she won over the judges with her eloquence and vision. During the final Q&A round, she was asked to choose between supporting women’s education and providing economic assistance to poor families.
Without hesitation, she chose education, saying:
“Educating women doesn’t just change one life. It transforms the future of families, communities, and nations.”
Her clarity of thought, combined with her poise and stage presence, secured her the national crown.
Teachers Recall a Dedicated Student
At Mata Sundari College, news of her victory has sparked pride among faculty and students.
Principal Harpreet Kaur described her as “a brilliant student, humble in nature, and deeply involved in college activities.”
Her student advisor, Manjot Kaur, remembered her ability to maintain balance:
“Manika managed academics alongside cultural events with remarkable discipline. Her sincerity was visible in everything she pursued.”
Since March 2025, she has been on official leave to dedicate time to pageant preparations, but her professors have assured that the college will help her complete her studies when she returns.
Advocacy for Women’s Empowerment
More than just a beauty queen, Manika Vishwakarma represents the values of education and empowerment. She strongly advocates for women’s education as a long-term solution to poverty and inequality.
Her personal journey reflects this belief, as she balanced academic pursuits with arts and pageantry. Teachers and peers see her as a role model who combines intelligence, creativity, and social awareness.
Looking Ahead: Miss Universe 2025
Now crowned Miss Universe India 2025, Manika will compete at the global level in Thailand, representing the hopes of India on an international stage. Competing against participants from around the world, she aims to showcase not just her beauty and talent, but also the voice of a generation that values education and empowerment.
An Icon for Young India
From the auditorium of a Delhi University college to the spotlight of the Miss Universe stage, Manika Vishwakarma’s journey is a story of resilience, hard work, and vision. She is proof that young women in India can dream beyond boundaries while staying rooted in academics and social causes.
For her teachers and peers, she will always be remembered as a disciplined and humble student. For India, she stands as a symbol of ambition, grace, and empowerment qualities that define the new-age Indian woman.
