Manika Vishwakarma, 22, who represented India at Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand, recently opened up about the intense preparation and discipline required for beauty pageants. Inspired by Sushmita Sen, the Miss Universe 1994 winner, Manika has dreamed of competing on the global stage since she was four years old.
Though she did not make it to the Top 12, Manika shared valuable insights into the rigorous 30-day training that goes beyond the final stage appearances.
The Rigorous Preparation Behind the Glamour
Speaking to The Lallantop, Manika explained, “Most people see the prelims and the finale, but there’s an entire month filled with different rounds and subtitles. Every day, there’s a new activity where we are tested. Preparing for Miss Universe requires pageant-centric training, and I was fortunate to have the best coach guiding me.”
A highlight of her preparation involved mastering the ramp walk, which she describes as a discipline akin to a sport. “The walk varies from stage to stage. Training for Miss Universe is more technical than other pageants. It takes at least 3-4 months of rigorous practice, especially when walking in 6–7 inch heels, which is standard.”
My Journey with Heels
Manika shared her personal experience learning to walk in heels. “The first time I wore heels, I was scared. I began with 4.5 inches, then moved to six inches. In January 2025, I started wearing heels at home — while walking, cooking, studying, even sitting. I wore heels 24×7, and eventually, the pain disappeared. The body adapts.”
Her dedication highlights the unseen physical and mental preparation behind a pageant contestant’s poised appearance on stage.
Breaking Stereotypes About Pageants
Manika also addressed misconceptions that pageants are purely about physical beauty. “Pageantry is not modelling. Modelling requires specific measurements, but in pageants, body type diversity is appreciated. Dieting is never a concern. Miss Universe is often misunderstood as a beauty-only contest, but it is far more than that.”
She emphasized the importance of aura, confidence, and communication skills. “It’s not just about your face. Stage presence, authority, and storytelling are non-negotiable. Height, weight, or profession doesn’t define you — it’s what you represent, your thoughts, your community, and how you carry yourself on stage.”
Manika’s candid revelations offer an insightful glimpse into the world of pageantry, shedding light on the discipline, resilience, and dedication that lie behind the glittering gowns and spotlights.
