Overview
- During a November 16 chain-reaction interview in Pak Kret, Thailand, Miss Universe India Manika Vishwakarma was asked the same 'essence of being a woman' question posed to Sushmita Sen in 1994.
- She first acknowledged Sen’s response about a woman’s nurturing power, calling it a plain truth that endures.
- She then added her perspective, saying the essence includes the ability to beautify, embrace and amplify the world, concluding, "Being a woman is being infinite."
- Coverage notes she has been drawing attention for poise and style, with an earlier appearance in a navy embroidered jacket over a lehenga-choli attributed to designer Rajdeep Ranawat, according to Hindustan Times.
- The competition is progressing toward a November 21 finale in Pak Kret, a stage where commentators say her approach aligns with an Indian pageant identity that prizes intellect as well as glamour, per News18.