To accommodate more competitors and reflect the diverse nature of the nation, the organisers of the Miss Universe India beauty pageant have announced significant changes in the specifications for the competition, including the elimination of age and height limits. This move aims to open up opportunities for a broader range of women to participate and showcase their talents on the global stage.
The announcement was made by Miss Universe 2023 Sheynnis Palacios, Miss Universe Vice President Mario Buraco, and Miss Universe India Director Nikhil Anand. In the midst of these changes, it’s worth noting the historical context of the Miss Universe pageant.
Since its inception in 1952, the age limit for participation has been set at 18 to 28 years, with a minimum height requirement of 5 feet 3 inches without heels. These criteria, although intended to uphold certain standards of beauty and eligibility, have also been limiting for many talented individuals.
“Simply having a short height prevents many talented girls from moving forward. For talent, we have made this competition even easier,” Anand announced at a Press conference last week releasing significant changes for Miss Universe India 2024.
He further added that, State-level competitions will be held in all states of India, and the winner will represent India on the global stage. This year, state director State-level competitions will now be held across all Indian states, ensuring wider participation and representation. This move removes the barrier of limited local audiences and provides a platform for talent regardless of location. The appointment of a state director in each region allows for a more grassroots approach; ensuring local engagement and sighting hidden gems on a national scale.
Palacios, the first Nicaraguan to win the Miss Universe title, expressed her admiration for India saying she has spent only a short time in India, but the people here are so lovely where it feels having known them for years.
“India is a confluence of great cultures; I feel very at home here,” she added, praising Indian cuisine, particularly butter chicken masala.
Mario highlighted the Miss Universe stage’s significance in connecting countries worldwide and providing a platform for the exchange of cultures. He emphasised that preparations are underway for a unique event for this year’s Miss Universe competition.
After seven years, a non-Indian Miss Universe titleholder has visited India. Palacios’s visit aimed to inaugurate the Miss Universe India competition under the new management of the Glamour Group. The 2024 Miss Universe competition will be held in Mexico.
These changes in the Miss Universe India competition are not just about eliminating age and height limits; they represent a broader shift towards inclusivity and diversity in beauty pageants. By removing these barriers, the competition aims to provide a platform for women of all ages and heights to showcase their beauty, talent, and intelligence.
The decision to introduce state-level competitions in all states of India is also a significant step towards decentralizing the pageant and providing opportunities for women from diverse backgrounds to participate.
By eliminating age and height limits, introducing State-level competitions, and appointing Sate directors, the competition is setting a new standard for beauty pageants, one that celebrates the diversity and talent of women from all walks of life.
