Miss Universe 2024: A look back at the time India brought the crown home

Victoria Kjaer, 21, made history on Saturday by becoming the first girl from Denmark to win the Miss Universe 2024 crown. It was a sad day for India, as the country's representative, Rhea Singha, was eliminated from the competition and did not advance to the Top 12. Before Rhea, India has only won the pageant three times. However, they were also historic times for India. Here's a peek at the beauty queen who won the crown for India and then won our hearts.

1. Harnaaz Sandhu?

Harnaaz Sandhu broke India's 21-year drought by winning Miss Universe in 2021. The Miss Universe 2021 winner competed against 80 other contenders from throughout the world.?

In the final round, Harnaaz and the other finalists were asked: "What advice would you give to young women watching on how to deal with the pressures they face today?"

Her response not only helped her win the crown but also won over the judges' hearts.?

2. Lara Dutta?

Lara Dutta was crowned Miss Universe in 2000. Her victory was historic, as she set new highs in both the swimsuit competition and the final interview. Her score of 9.99 is still the highest recorded in Miss Universe history.

In the final round, Lara was expected to persuade those protesting outside the venue against the pageant, her reply not only impressed the judges but also made her win the pageant.?

3. Sushmita Sen? ??

Sushmita Sen was crowned Miss Universe in 1994. Her victory is significant for India for a variety of reasons, including the fact that she became the first Indian woman to win the crown since the beauty pageant's inception 43 years ago.During the final Q&A, the three finalists were asked to define their concept of the "essence of a woman".?

Also read:?Best moments of India's Rhea Singha at Miss Universe 2024

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