Venezuela made history at the Miss Universe pageant by winning the crown for the second year running, even as Miss India exited the contest without even making it to the top 15.
Eighteen-year-old Stefania Fernandez was crowned Miss Universe 2009 by the incumbent crown holder, her compatriot Dayana Mendoza, on Sunday night.
She became the sixth Miss Universe from the South American country, known for it beauty obsessed culture.
But 22-year-old Delhiite, Ekta Chowdhury, made an early exit and did not make the cut for the top 15.
Venezuela has won five Miss Universe titles, five Miss World and four Miss International crowns, more than any other country.
The first runner-up title is shared by Miss Australia Rachael Finch and Miss Puerto Rico Mayra Matos Perez, with the title of second runner-up going to Miss Kosovo Gona Dragusha, reported Los Angeles Times.
The televised event included musical performances by Flo Rida, Heidi Montag, David Guetta and Kelly Rowland. Hosts were Billy Bush, co-anchor of "Access Hollywood," and Claudia Jordan, former Miss Rhode Island USA who has appeared on several TV shows.
Judges included actor Dean Cain and supermodel Valeria Mazza. Miss China, Wang Jingyao, was named Miss Congeniality and Miss Thailand, Chutima Durongdej, won Miss Photogenic.
Image: Miss Venezuela, Stefania Fernandez celebrates onstage after winning the Miss Universe 2009 pageant in the Bahamas
Photograph: Reuters Text: PTI
