Manika Vishwakarma walked into Miss Universe 2025 not just as a contestant, but as a statement of modern India.
She was confident, cultured and completely in her element.
Representing the country on an international stage, she made her way into the Top 30.
While her journey came to a close at the Top 12, she left a lasting impression through powerful words, bold fashion, and undeniable presence.
The 22 year old may not have made it to the final crown, but some of her appearances have certainly made a lasting impression.
Take a look.
IMAGE: Manika glows in a butter yellow sheer gown with delicate embroidery, proving that pastels can still pack pageant-level drama. All photographs: Kind courtesy Manika Vishwakarma/Instagram
IMAGE: For the swimsuit round, Manika rocked a royal-blue monokini that was simple yet striking.
IMAGE: Drama level 100! The black gown with exaggerated off-shoulder sleeves and a bold red lip? That's main character energy.
IMAGE: Manika looked like a disco ball in human form in this shimmery silver crop top and draped skirt.
IMAGE: In a red off-shoulder slit gown with ruby jewels, Manika reveals that a bold pop of colour is the quickest way to own the room.
IMAGE: RED-y to take over the globe in a leather corset, pants and trench.
IMAGE: Not just monokinis and minis -- Manika proudly displays her Indian roots in a maroon mirrored anarkali with traditional jewellery.
IMAGE: Fun fact -- This sheer, bedazzled gown was a last-minute swap when Manika realised her earlier outfit wasn't ready for the runway.
IMAGE: Here she is serving Indian Elsa vibes in an ice-blue sheer gown soaked in shimmer and crystals. Manika adds a desi touch by accessorising with a dainty blue maangtikka.
IMAGE: Here, Manika's holographic parade look is loud, proud and dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community, thanking their contribution in her journey.
IMAGE: A lavender mini packed with shimmer, diamonds and tassels topped with a long, swishy ponytail is basically her saying: If it sparkles, it works.
IMAGE: Flower power turns fierce in this red floral blazer set layered over a black bralette.
IMAGE: Looking straight out of the Milky Way, our Manika owns the gala night in a sculpted sheer silver dress that looked celestial and impossible to miss.
IMAGE: Cottagecore but make it romantic! Manika's blue gingham satin-silk midi with a corset bodice is straight out of a storybook.
IMAGE: She gets Indo-western right in a draped black skirt, mini blouse and cropped jacket, turning a traditional look into a power move.
IMAGE: A full-sleeved floral blue monokini proves swimwear can be modest, and fashion-forward.
IMAGE: Manika exudes classic pageant royalty as she dresses up in a turquoise sari with gold embroidery for an interview.
IMAGE: She gives major lessons in fusion dressing in a brocade lehenga-choli teamed with a black blazer, mixing desi silhouettes with sharp tailoring.
IMAGE: Manika looks like a desi Tinkerbell in a mini beige sparkle dress that's absolutely fairycore!