Harnaaz Sandhu Crowned Miss Universe 2021 in Israel
Chandigarh-based model Harnaaz Sandhu has made India proud today by winning the coveted Miss Universe 2021 title.
Chandigarh-based model Harnaaz Sandhu has made India proud today by winning the coveted Miss Universe 2021 title.
The crown was brought home 21 years after Lara Dutta won the title in 2000. The first and the second runners-up in the current 2021 contest were Paraguay and South Africa respectively.
The glamorous event was held in Eilat, Israel. Harnaaz was crowned by her predecessor Andrea Meza of Mexico who won the pageant in 2020.
Harnaaz has become the third Indian to win the Miss Universe title. She has been previously crowned Miss Diva 2021.
“I am immensely grateful to the Almighty, my parents, and the Miss India Organization for guiding and supporting me throughout. Loads of love to everyone who prayed and wished the crown for me,” Ms. Sandhu said.
#National | India’s #HarnaazSandhu crowned #MissUniverse2021 pic.twitter.com/EixHkny5vw
— EastMojo (@EastMojo) December 13, 2021
Sandhu’s exquisitely designed gown which she gracefully adorned in the finale was created by Saisha Shinde.
Harnaaz is raised in a Sikh family. She attended Kalia Public School and the Post Graduate Government College for Girls, both in Guruharsahai. She’s currently pursuing her Masters' degree in public administration.
In the final question and answer round, the contestants had the privilege to choose the topic they’d like to speak on. Harleen chose an interesting subject that is so relevant today- “Global Warming and Climate Change.”
“One day, life will flash before your eyes, make sure it's worth watching. However, this is not the life you want to watch, where the climate is changing and the environment is dying. It is one of the fiasco that us humans have done to the environment. I do believe that we still have time to undo our irresponsible behaviour. Earth is all we have in common and our small acts as individuals when multiplied by billions can transform the whole world. Start now, from tonight, switch off those extra lights when not in use. Thank you”, she said in the question and answer round.
As one of the top semifinalists in the Miss Diva 2021 Sandhu said in the opening statement: “From a young girl with fragile mental health who faced bullying and body shaming to a woman who emerged like a phoenix, realising her true potential. From an individual who once doubted her own existence to a woman who is aspiring to inspire the youth. Today, I stand proudly in front of the Universe as a courageous, vivacious and a compassionate woman who is all set to lead a life with a purpose, and to leave behind a remarkable legacy.”
As the current Miss Universe 2021, Harnaaz will reside in New York and take part in events around the world.