The 72nd edition of the Miss Universe competition, held this year, unfolded as a historic spectacle filled with groundbreaking firsts, and amidst the many awe-inspiring participants, one woman garnered overwhelming support and acclaim. Jane Dipika Garrett, a 22-year-old beauty, carried the hopes and pride of Nepal, emerging as a beacon of change in the pageant realm.
Having clinched the title of Miss Nepal earlier in the year, Garrett made her mark at the Miss Universe competition hosted at the Gimnasio Nacional José Adolfo Pineda in San Salvador, El Salvador, on November 18. Notably, Garrett etched her name in history as the inaugural plus-sized contestant to grace the illustrious stage, a distinction that resonated with profound significance. Her mission was clear—to represent the diversity of women, challenging conventional beauty standards and standing as a proud advocate of body positivity.
Garrett’s presence on the stage was met with resounding cheers, particularly during the swimsuit competition when she confidently showcased herself in a striking silver one-piece. Viewers, both in the audience and at home, couldn’t contain their enthusiasm, expressing their delight and admiration for the trailblazing Miss Nepal.
In the realm of social media, formerly known as Twitter, accolades poured in for Garrett. One user enthused, “OH WOW Nepal’s Jane Dipika Garrett is SUCH A BEAUTY and defies stereotype in Miss Universe. I LOVE that the crowd is cheering for her. Finally a representation of plus size women in the Ms. U!!! GOO GOO JANE cheering for you.” Another celebrated Garrett’s achievement, stating, “Jane Dipika Garrett, you’ve broken barriers. Many women around the world see themselves in you. Congrats on Top 20, my sentimental fave.”
Beyond her role as a champion for body positivity, Garrett utilized her platform to advocate for hormonal health, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and mental health. Opening up about her own struggles with PCOS-induced depression, she shared with Hola Magazine, “A few years ago, I was a very insecure person and had very low self-esteem. Now, I love myself, and that’s success to me.”
Notably, Garrett wasn’t the sole trailblazer in this edition of Miss Universe, as the competition also saw the historic inclusion of the first-ever Miss Pakistan, Erica Robin. Robin made a powerful statement during the swimsuit competition by donning a stunning pastel pink burkini that covered much of her body, standing out amidst the daring swimsuits that graced the stage. However, her inclusion faced criticism, with some Pakistani politicians deeming it “shameful” and prompting an investigation by the Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul-Haq Kakar.
In response to the backlash, Robin asserted, “It feels great to represent Pakistan. But I don’t understand where the backlash is coming from. I think it is this idea that I would be parading in a swimsuit in a room full of men.” Prior to the competition, Robin expressed her hope to challenge the perception that Pakistan is a backward country.
Ultimately, the crown of Miss Universe 2023 was bestowed upon Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, marking the culmination of a pageant that will be remembered for its trailblazing participants and the historic moments they created.
