Miss Universe 2024 is set to be one of the most exciting events of the year, and as the grand finale approaches, anticipation has been building among fans worldwide. This illustrious beauty pageant will be held on November 16, 2024, at 8 PM ET, with the crowning of the new titleholder taking place at the Mexico City Arena. Each year, this glamorous competition brings together participants from various countries, and this year is no different.
A staggering 130 contestants are vying for the coveted Miss Universe title, with representatives from every corner of the globe. The event features not only the classic beauty contests but also various segments like talent, evening gown, and the pivotal national costume round, which often garners significant attention.
One of the standout highlights this year is India’s representative, Rhea Singha. She captured the hearts of the audience during the national costume round, where she showcased an elaborate outfit inspired by 'The Golden Bird'. This unique costume symbolizes India’s rich cultural heritage and historical prosperity. Rhea, who was crowned Miss Universe India earlier this year, wore the costume created by Vietnamese designer Nguyen Ngoc Tu.
Nguyen, speaking to audiences about her creation, expressed pride and dedication, highlighting how the costume embodies India’s golden era—a time when the nation was globally recognized for its wealth and prosperity. The designer noted, "This ensemble is not just fabric and thread; it's about celebrating our cultural exchanges and mutual respect between our nations."
So, what exactly is 'The Golden Bird'? Manoshi Sinha, acclaimed author and historian, shed light on this term, explaining its historical significance. Sinha detailed how ancient India was referred to as the 'Golden Bird' or son chidiya, due to its affluent trade routes and abundant natural resources. She pointed out how regions like Takshashila and Nalanda were not only centers of learning, attracting students worldwide but epitomes of India's once-thriving economy.
With trade flourishing and cities prospering from the exchange of goods and ideas, India earned its title as the 'most productive region globally' as noted by historians like Angus Maddison. This phrase encapsulates the essence of India's storied past and connects it to modern cultural expressions, making Rhea's costume resonate even more.
Kamal Kabuliwala, a narrator of cultural stories, emphasized how the metaphor of the Golden Bird extends beyond mere economics. He explained, "India's historical wealth was often measured by its gold reserves, where gold signified freedom and prosperity, reflected by the imagery of the bird soaring high above. This concept of freedom encapsulates the aspiration of ancient Indian society, which thrived during the Mauryan and Gupta empires."
Transitioning from historical roots, the competition continues to evolve, showcasing not just aesthetics but also the personalities and ambitions of the candidates. For Rhea Singha, the pageant is not just about beauty but also about utilizing the platform for greater causes. She has been vocal about her commitment to social issues, aiming to leverage the Miss Universe title to spark discussions and create change. "Winning isn’t just about the crown; it’s also about responsibility. I want to inspire others to pursue their passions," she said during her interviews.
Back to the pageant preparations, this year’s crown, named the "Lumière de l’Infini," marks another point of excitement. Created by the renowned French-Filipino jewelry brand Jewelmer, this exquisite crown incorporates 23 South Sea pearls, embodying elegance and luxury. Its name translates to 'Light of the Infinity,' symbolizing the timeless beauty and aspirations of all women represented at the event. This new crown promises to be as stunning as the contestants themselves.
Meanwhile, the judging panel for this year's competition features celebrated figures from fashion, entertainment, and art. Some notable judges include Grammy-winning music producer Emilio Estefan, Venezuelan-American influencer Lele Pons, and renowned designer Michael Cinco. This diverse panel adds depth to the event, ensuring varied perspectives when selecting the winner.
The Miss Universe 2024 pageant promises to be inaugurated with dazzling performances, vibrant displays of cultural heritage, and, of course, beautiful contestants shining under the stage lights. Audiences can tune in to watch the finale live on the Miss Universe YouTube channel, with options for international viewers and specific broadcast details shared on various platforms.
With Rhea Singha leading India's charge this year, viewers are eagerly waiting to witness how she embraces her role and whether she can bring home the coveted crown once again. The powerful narrative surrounding her national costume and the symbolism it encapsulates could very well be the highlight of this year's competition. While the stakes are high, all eyes will be glued to the screen as the spotlight shines bright on these remarkable women, representing their nations with pride and purpose.
And as the world holds its breath for the crowning moment, the Miss Universe pageant continues to capture imaginations, representing not just beauty but also culture, empowerment, and the shared aspirations of women worldwide.
