Harnaaz Sandhu not only made India proud by winning the crown of Miss Universe 2021 but also showcased India’s culture and beauty through all the outfits she wore for the pageant. Specially during the national costume segment of the Miss Universe contest. Twirling in a pink gold embellished lehenga, carrying a traditional wedding parasol the 21-year-old diva paid tribute to her homeland.
The lehenga was designed by Delhi-based designer Abhinav Mishra meanwhile the custom-made umbrella was created by Reza Shariffi. Sandhu left entire crowd in awe as she confidently carried the dazzling pink lehenga paired with traditional jewellery which included danglers, bangles, a statement ring, a choker neckpiece and a multi-stranded matha patti.
About her costume choice, Harnaaz said that it “is a royal visual representation of a woman that showcases the Indian queen, strong yet delicate. Its elements are symbolic towards the protection instinct of a woman.”
“Thank you @abhinavmishra_ for such an intricate piece of art that is my national costume and today as I walked on that stage, I felt a sense of empowerment. I dedicate my performance to all those strong women out there who face battles every day with a smile. You’re a warrior and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise,” she wrote on Instagram.
Sharing his experience on working on the concept, Abhinav said, “We are very proud to be associated with Harnaaz Sandhu and we wish her all the very best! It is a moment of great pride, and It has been a great experience working with her on the national costume. When we were informed that the national costume will be celebrating the rich and illustrious class of India and the power behind the royal Indian queen, it was a great message for us. It resonated with our brand as we represent the modern women of today who celebrate her inner royalty and grace.”
The colour pink in the outfit celebrates femininity, strength and power and also showcased Mishra’s signature mirror work and gota patti work which represents India’s rich heritage and crafts. A royal visual representation of India, the outfit took 15 days to complete.
Harnaaz Sandhu won the Miss Universe title becoming only the third Indian woman after Lara Dutta and Sushmita Sen to win the crown. The beauty queen beat out 79 other contestants for the title in global pageant that was held in Israel this year. Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu will now reside in New York and participate in events globally.
