Harnaaz Sandhu won the Miss Universe 2021 pageant on Monday.
“I do feel a sense of responsibility as I am going to represent India and I am headstrong to make India proud at Miss Universe 2021,” Harnaaz, who hails from Chandigarh, told Opoyi. She became India’s Miss Universe 2021 candidate after representing Chandigarh at Miss Diva 2021 in Mumbai on September 30, 2021, and won.
Before being titled Miss Diva Universe 2021, she won the title for Miss Max Emerging Star India in 2018 and later became Femina Miss India Punjab 2019. Harnaaz sees former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen and Lara Dutta as inspirations as they have represented India beautifully on this platform.
“Their aura and dedication reflect in the work they have doing. I also see Adlene Casteleno as my inspiration as she has brought glory back to India after so many years and I am headstrong to carry forward that legacy,” she said.
The 21-year-old winner is currently pursuing her master’s degree in public administration and holds a strong affinity towards acting, dancing, swimming, and horse riding. She describes herself as a quick learner, versatile, compassionate, and confident, who carries her passion with a headstrong attitude towards achieving her goals.
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For starters, it was never easy for her to follow her dreams and conquer her goals as she was an introvert and was bullied for having a thin body. “Yes, I have faced body shaming and bullying as a child and as I recall those memories from my childhood, I feel that everything happens for a reason. Those experiences have made me realise my true potentials and have imparted in me the courage to stand up after falling each time,” she said.
She also has a message for girls.
“I want to tell all the girls that beauty is subjective and it all depends on how you perceive things. Always rise above your limitations and do not let any boundaries decide what you will become. You are the sole owner of your existence and make the most out of it,” she told Opoyi.
Harnaaz credits her mother for supporting her always.
“I have always been close to my Mom and she is my guiding star. I have overcome the battle of these hurdles through her help. She is a doctor and understands me very well. Also, an inner calling is something that changes the whole game and my inner calling made me realised my purpose which helped me a lot to recover and stand confidently in front of you today,” she said.
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Finally, how she wants to inspire young girls?
“I wish to inspire the young girls by representing my story as an example. It’s always possible to get up after falling down and I want them to see within themselves and search for the light that will make them shine,” she said and added that “Miss Universe is a platform that celebrates sisterhood and womanhood.”
“I believe it gives voice to the aspiring women out there who are ready to conquer the world and are compassionate to bring a change in society.”
This interview was published on October 7
