Audiences are thrilled by the groundbreaking performance of Miss Nepal in this year's Miss Universe competition.

The 72nd Miss Universe competition this year marked a series of historic milestones. One standout participant garnering immense support is 22-year-old Jane Dipika Garrett, who clinched the Miss Nepal title earlier in the year.

Representing Nepal at the prestigious event held at the Gimnasio Nacional José Adolfo Pineda in San Salvador, El Salvador on November 18, Garrett made history as the first-ever plus-sized contestant on the coveted stage.

In defiance of conventional beauty norms, Garrett, a proud advocate of body positivity, expressed, "As a curvy woman who doesn’t follow certain beauty standards, I’m here to represent all women," according to Indy100.

The significance of Garrett's presence did not go unnoticed by the audience, who erupted in cheers when the 22-year-old graced the stage in a breathtaking silver one-piece during the swimsuit competition. Those watching remotely also expressed their joy, with many turning to social media platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) to applaud the beauty queen.

"OH WOW, Jane Dipika Garrett from Nepal is absolutely stunning and defies stereotypes in the Miss Universe competition. I LOVE that the crowd is cheering for her. Finally, representation for plus-size women in Miss U!!! GOO GOO JANE, cheering for you," exclaimed one Twitter user.

Another chimed in, saying, "Jane Dipika Garrett, you've shattered barriers. Many women around the world see themselves in you. Congrats on making it to the Top 20, you're my sentimental favorite."

A third viewer shared, "Pleased to see Miss Nepal in the Miss Universe Competition, which is often dominated by slim ladies. It's refreshing to see all body types represented there too. Women come in all shapes and sizes, and every kind of body is beautiful."

In addition to promoting body positivity, Garrett utilizes her platform to advocate for hormonal health, PCOS, and mental health, drawing from her own experiences with PCOS that led to a battle with depression. In an interview with Hola Magazine, she shared, "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."

Another noteworthy aspect of this year's Miss Universe competition was the introduction of the first-ever Miss Pakistan. Representing the nation, Erica Robin made a groundbreaking statement during the swimsuit competition. As she graced the stage, the audience in San Salvador erupted with applause when Robin showcased a stunning pastel pink burkini, offering a striking contrast to the many bold swimsuits that had previously adorned the stage.

Regrettably, as reported by BBC News, Erica Robin's participation in the competition sparked controversy, with some politicians in Pakistan deeming it "shameful." Even the Caretaker Prime Minister, Anwar ul-Haq Kakar, ordered an investigation into the matter.

Addressing the criticism, the 24-year-old Robin stated, "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."

Before the competition, Robin expressed her hope to "change [the] mindset that Pakistan is a backward country."

In the end, Miss Nicaragua, Sheynnis Palacios, emerged as the winner of the competition.

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