Quick Read
- Two Miss Universe judges resigned days before the 2025 finale, alleging possible rigging.
- The Miss Universe Organisation denied any external influence on finalist selection.
- The pageant finale will be held November 21, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand, with over 120 countries participating.
- Thailand’s Praveenar Singh wowed audiences in a national costume inspired by cultural guardians.
- India’s Manika Vishwakarma aims to become the fourth Indian Miss Universe winner.
Controversy Erupts Ahead of Miss Universe 2025 Finale
The Miss Universe 2025 pageant, set to crown its 74th winner in Bangkok, Thailand, has become a stage not only for beauty and culture but also for heated controversy. Days before the grand finale, two members of the eight-person jury—Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch and French football manager Claude Makélélé—abruptly resigned, citing serious concerns about the integrity of the competition.
Harfouch, in a candid Instagram post, alleged that an “impromptu jury” had already selected the finalists, sidelining the official judges. He claimed the unofficial group had potential conflicts of interest due to personal relationships with contestants. These assertions, made public just days before the event, sent ripples across the global pageant community.
Makélélé, meanwhile, announced his withdrawal citing “unforeseen personal reasons.” In his statement, he expressed deep respect for the Miss Universe platform and its commitment to empowerment, diversity, and excellence—values he said he has championed throughout his career.
The Miss Universe Organisation responded swiftly, rejecting Harfouch’s accusations. According to its official statement, “no external group has been authorised to evaluate delegates or select finalists.” The organisation clarified that Harfouch may have confused the main pageant with the “Beyond the Crown” initiative, a separate social impact program with its own committee. The MUO emphasized that Harfouch’s claims mischaracterized the program’s role and purpose. (BBC)
A Stage Set for Spectacle and National Pride
While controversy swirled behind the scenes, the public face of Miss Universe 2025 dazzled audiences. On November 19, Thailand’s Praveenar “Veena” Singh, Miss Universe Thailand 2025, captivated viewers during the National Costume round at IMPACT Challenger Hall 2. Her costume, “Suwannaraksaa: The Golden Guardian Yaksha of Suvarnabhumi,” designed by Art Akarach Neramitsilp, drew inspiration from legendary Thai guardian figures. The shimmering gold attire symbolized prosperity, wisdom, and the enduring richness of Thai civilization—transforming Veena into a living emblem of national pride.
This year’s pageant theme, “The Power of Love,” reflects a commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and strength. Over 120 women from around the globe have gathered in Bangkok, each representing their country’s hopes and dreams. The event is not only a contest of beauty, but also a celebration of cultural heritage and shared humanity. (Nation Thailand)
India’s Hopeful: Manika Vishwakarma Takes the Stage
India’s representative, Manika Vishwakarma, stands in the spotlight as she aims to bring the Miss Universe crown home for the fourth time. Hailing from Rajasthan, Manika secured her spot at a dazzling ceremony in Jaipur on August 18. Indian fans, ever hopeful, are watching closely—if she triumphs, she will join Harnaaz Sandhu (2021), Lara Dutta (2000), and Sushmita Sen (1994) in the country’s hall of fame. The anticipation is palpable, especially given India’s long gaps between previous wins.
The finale is scheduled for November 21 at the Impact Challenger Hall in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, Thailand, starting at 8:00 am local time (6:30 am IST). For the global audience, including millions in India, the event will be live-streamed via the official Miss Universe YouTube channel. (Hindustan Times)
Backlash and Response: Pageant Under Scrutiny
This year’s pageant has faced more than internal drama. Earlier in November, the Thailand director of Miss Universe, Nawat Itsaragrisil, publicly chastised Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, at a pre-pageant event for not posting promotional content on her social media. The incident, captured on video and widely shared, led Bosch and several contestants to walk out in protest—some audibly confronting Mr. Nawat. The Miss Universe Organisation responded with a stern rebuke, sending a team of international executives to oversee the competition and restore order.
Meanwhile, questions remain about the transparency and fairness of the selection process. The resignation of two judges, combined with allegations of conflicts of interest, has cast a shadow over the event’s credibility. The Organisation’s insistence that the process remains above board has not entirely quelled skepticism among fans and observers.
The Power of Pageantry: More Than a Crown
Despite the turbulence, Miss Universe 2025 continues to attract global attention. The spectacle of national costumes, the stories of contestants overcoming adversity, and the shared moments of celebration all serve as reminders of the pageant’s enduring allure. For many, the event represents not just beauty, but the power of representation, cultural dialogue, and international unity.
Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig, the reigning Miss Universe 2024, will pass her crown to the next winner—whoever she may be—on November 21. The world will be watching, not only to see who claims the title, but also to witness how the pageant navigates the challenges of scandal, expectation, and the evolving meaning of beauty on the global stage.
While Miss Universe 2025 has faced its share of controversy—from judge resignations and allegations of rigging to viral walkouts—the pageant’s ability to draw attention to issues of transparency, cultural pride, and global representation remains undiminished. The finale in Bangkok promises both spectacle and scrutiny, reminding us that in the pursuit of a crown, the real story is often found in the challenges faced along the way.