Harnaaz, the first Indian in 21 years to win the title was adorned with the Mouawad “Power of Unity” crown
Harnaaz, the first Indian in 21 years to win the title was adorned with the Mouawad “Power of Unity” crown Image Credit: Supplied

India’s Harnaaz Sandhu was crowned Miss Universe recently at glittering ceremony in Eilat, Israel. The 21-year-old LIVA Miss Diva Universe 2021 had stiff competition from 81 contestants representing various countries at the 70th edition of the Miss Universe pageant. It is after long 21 years that the title went to India -- the last Miss Universe from the country was model and actor Lara Dutta in 2000.

Miss Universe India was crowned with the Mouawad “Power of Unity” Crown, which was presented to her by outgoing Miss Universe, Andrea Meza. Mouawad is a privately-held Swiss, Emirati company based in the UAE which created the iconic crown.

The Mouawad Miss Universe Power of Unity Crown is bespoke and boasts extraordinary craftsmanship. It symbolises women from across the globe and features 1,725 white diamonds and three golden canary diamonds set in an interplays of petals, leaves and vines.

It also features three central golden canary coloured diamonds that represent the new golden age of women. The crown’s centrepiece is an exquisite mixed cut golden canary diamond that weighs 62.83 carat.

The Mouawad Miss Universe Power of Unity Crown symbolises women from across the globe and features 1,725 white diamonds and three golden canary diamonds set in an interplays of petals, leaves and vines.
The Mouawad Miss Universe Power of Unity Crown symbolises women from across the globe and features 1,725 white diamonds and three golden canary diamonds set in an interplays of petals, leaves and vines. Image Credit: Supplied

"It is always inspiring to see the Mouawad Miss Universe Power of Unity Crown during its crowning moment, representing a new chapter in its story and reinvigorated hope for the world. We are sure that the new reigning Miss Universe, Harnaaz Sandhu will bring her unique radiance and talent to her role, to use her power to shine a light on worthy causes and bring communities together, in a way as dazzling as the hundreds of diamonds set in the crown,” said Fourth generation Mouawad Co-Guardians Fred, Alain and Pascal Mouawad,

Harnaaz Sandhu commented after her win: “This has been an experience of a lifetime! The past three weeks have been a dream getting to know these exceptional women, and I’m honoured to be chosen among them to represent this inspiring organisation. I hope to serve the global community to the best of my ability in the year to come.”

The 70th Miss Universe competition was aired live in over 160 nations and territories across the globe.