Harnaaz Sandhu brought home the Miss Universe crown to India, 21 years since anyone representing the country last won it.
The previous Indian holding the title was Lara Dutta, who won it in the year 2000.
And with all the glory and fame that has come her way, there’s also some inevitable trolling, that Sandhu has faced. Some of them have started to allege, that she only won the 2021 Miss Universe title because she has a pretty face.
The 21 year old however insists that it is a lot more than that. And that there were many efforts that went into making it happen.
Speaking with Mid-Day, Harnaaz was quoted telling the following:
“There are a lot of people who say [I] won because [I] have a pretty face. But I know the amount of effort that went behind it. Instead of indulging in argument, I’d rather work hard to make them realise [my worth]. This is the stereotype that I want to break.”
She further contrasted her win with winning an Olympic, stating that she too is representing the country:
“This [win] is a lot like an Olympic [win]. When we appreciate a sports-person who represents the country, why can’t we [appreciate] beauty pageant winners? However, mindsets are changing, and I am happy to be breaking stereotypes already.”
What are your thoughts?