Miss Universe 2021 is Harnaaz Sandhu: 10 things to know about the Indian beauty queen

Harnaaz Sandhu made India proud as she was crowned the 70th Miss Universe 2021, topping a field of some 80 contestants in the pageant.

She beat out 79 other contestants from various countries and territories — including runner-up Miss Paraguay Nadia Ferreira and second runner-up Miss South Africa Lalela Mswane to claim the prestigious title.

"I am immensely grateful to the Almighty, my parents, and the Miss India Organization for guiding and supporting me throughout. Loads of love to everyone who prayed and wished the crown for me. Bringing the glorious crown back after 21 years to India is a moment of greatest pride," Sandhu said.

Here are ten things about the beauty queen that you probably didn’t know:

1) Born and raised in Punjab, Harnaaz Sandhu attended Shivalik Public School and Post Graduate Government College for Girls, both in Chandigarh. She is currently pursuing her Masters' degree in Public Administration.

2) Harnaaz started her journey in the beauty and fashion industry when she won Times Fresh Face in 2017, representing Chandigarh at the age of 17.

3) She was crowned Femina Miss India Punjab 2019 and made it to the Top 12.

4) The Chandigarh-based model was crowned LIVA Miss Diva Universe 2021.

5) Sandhu has also worked in a few Punjabi films, including the upcoming "Yaara Diyan Poo Baran" and "Bai Ji Kuttange" and said being in front of the camera as an actor was a humbling experience.

6) Harnaaz draws inspiration from her mother, who broke generations of patriarchy to become a successful gynecologist.

7) Harnaaz’s mother revealed that ‘Makki ki roti and sarson da saag’ is her favourite food and she is excited to cook for her daughter once she is back.

8) Harnaaz is an avid advocate for women’s rights to education and freedom of choice and draws a lot of inspiration from Priyanka Chopra Jonas.

9) In her spare time, Harnaaz enjoys yoga, dancing, cooking, horse riding and playing chess.

10) Now, Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu will reside in New York and participate in a number of events globally.

Harnaaz is a girl of many talents and India's pride will now be an inspiration to millions of young girls around the globe.