India celebrated a proud moment on November 21, 2025, as Manika Vishwakarma, the country’s representative at the 74th Miss Universe pageant, secured her place among the Top 30 contestants at the global stage held at Impact Challenger Hall, Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, Thailand. Though she did not advance to the Top 12, Manika’s performance, grace, and powerful purpose made her one of the standout voices of the competition.
A Scholar, Artist, Leader — and Now a Global Ambassador
Originally from Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, and now based in Delhi, Manika is currently in the final year of her undergraduate degree in Political Science and Economics at Mata Sundri College for Women, University of Delhi. Her academic background, paired with her leadership experience as a graduate of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), adds a depth and discipline to her presence that extends far beyond the pageant stage.
Beyond her academics, Manika is a trained classical dancer and a visual artist whose work has earned recognition from esteemed institutions including the Lalit Kala Akademi and the Sir J. J. School of Art. Her artistic vision is rooted in storytelling, emotion, and the complexity of lived experience — qualities that resonated in her Miss Universe journey.
Championing Neurodivergence Through “Neuronova”
What truly sets Manika apart is her unwavering advocacy. She is the founder of Neuronova, an initiative dedicated to reshaping perceptions around neurodivergence and highlighting how conditions such as ADHD can be viewed as strengths rather than limitations. Her mission reflects a compassionate, modern, and forward-looking approach to inclusion — one that made her stand out not just for beauty, but for purpose.
On the Miss Universe stage, her advocacy work shone through, reminding audiences that pageantry today is as much about impact as it is about elegance.
Representing India With Heart and Authenticity
At Miss Universe 2025, Manika displayed confidence, resilience, and authenticity. From interviews to presentations, she carried India’s flag with pride. While she may not have broken into the Top 12, her placement in the Top 30 at one of the world’s most competitive editions of the pageant solidifies her place as a rising figure in India’s pageant landscape.
More importantly, her journey is a testament to her multifaceted talent and advocacy into a powerful narrative that caught global attention.
Congratulations on representing India with extraordinary grace, strength, and purpose. Your Miss Universe journey is just the beginning, and your impact — from the arts to advocacy to global representation — continues to inspire countless young women across India and beyond.
Your story reminds us that crowns are earned not only through rankings, but through heart, authenticity, and the courage to stand for something meaningful. And in that, you truly shined.