Miss Universe 2023: Shweta Sharda is an armoured goddess in National Costume round | Watch

Miss Universe 2023 is currently taking place in El Salvador, the final of which will be held on November 18. Women from 90 different countries are competing in the 72nd Miss Universe pageant to become the next global beauty contest champion, replacing R'Bonney Gabriel of the United States. India is being represented by Shweta Sharda at the event. 

Miss Universe’s National Costume round took place on Thursday night, where every participant had to walk the ramp in an outfit that represented their country. India’s Shweta Sharda chose to depict modern India through her dress. 

Shweta Sharda in the National Costume round 

Shweta’s National Costume was designed by Nidhi Yasha and it symbolized a new, resilient India, weathering storms and emerging powerful. It embodied diversity, integrity, strength, and resilience, showcased in an armoured goddess look. The power shoulders and engineered bodice highlighted the feminine form’s gentle yet strong disposition.

The headgear featured a lotus halo, representing the coexistence of India’s diverse religions and cultures, with the lotus as the national flower. The lower half resembled a mystical golden peacock, India’s national bird, with handcrafted peacock feather embroidery.

The fluid Organza skirt and dramatic long trail contrasted the structured upper body, showcasing how India thrives in its beautiful contrasts and balances.

When and where to watch Miss Universe 2023

The final round of Miss Universe will take place in San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, at José Adolfo Pineda Arena, which can hold 13,000 people. It is set to begin on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

However, according to the Indian Standard Time, viewers will be able to watch the final competition on Miss Universe’s YouTube and X handle on November 19 from 6:30 am.