Punjabi model and actress Harnaaz Sandhu, who represented India at the 70th Miss Universe 2021, won the title of the prestigious beauty pageant, bringing back the trophy to her home country 21 years after Lara Dutta fetched it in 2000.

Harnaaz Sandhu, who impressed the judges of the competition throughout the season, particularly performed well as she took over the runway for the swimsuit round. Pictures of the model clad in a maroon cap-sleeved monokini oozing grace and confidence in the platform has garnered attention and appreciation. Harnaaz Sandhu began her beauty pageant journey with Times Fresh Face back in 2017 and was subsequently crowned Miss Universe India 2021 in October.

In response to her final question on what advice she would give young women on how to deal with the pressures they face today, the model said, “The biggest pressure the youth of today is facing is to believe in themselves, to know that you are unique and that’s what makes you beautiful. Stop comparing yourselves with others and let’s talk about more important things that’s happening worldwide. I believed in myself and that’s why I am standing here today.”