Jacqueline Pradhan crowned Miss Universe Sikkim 2025

JASWANT GAUTAM

GANGTOK, : In a glittering celebration of beauty, culture, and empowerment, Miss Universe Sikkim 2025 crowned Jacqueline Pradhan as its winner, marking a historic milestone as she became the first transgender woman to win the title in the pageant's history.

Held amidst much fanfare and elegance, the grand finale on Sunday evening here was graced by several dignitaries and cultural icons. The chief guest for the evening was Tenzing Dorjee Bhutia, chairman of SIMFED, while Gajanand Agarwal honoured the event as the guest of honour.

A distinguished panel of judges brought prestige and credibility to the event. The panel included Chief Minister’s press secretary Yougain Tamang, Temi Tea Estate managing director Radha Pradhan, Miss Universe India director (franchise operations) Amjad Khan, and Miss Universe India third runner-up Susmita Roy.

For the first time in the pageant’s history, the finale featured a ‘Statehood Round’ – a tribute to Sikkim’s traditional and cultural heritage as well as commemorating Sikkim’s Golden Jubilee year of Statehood. Contestants adorned traditional attires reflecting the ethnic diversity and pride of the region, earning thunderous applause from the audience.

This was followed by an audio-visual presentation chronicling the journey of the contestants — highlighting their training, transformation, and personal stories leading up to the grand finale.

A glamorous cocktail round succeeded, showcasing the elegance and confidence of the participants.

The programme also honoured key contributors to the pageant. Renowned pageant coach Peden Ongmu Namgyal and ace makeup artist Chimme Sherpa were both felicitated for their mentorship and artistry, respectively.

Energetic dance and musical performances by local talents added further vibrancy to the evening. Sayog Pradhan’s dance and Ellie Subba’s (winner of Ms. Talented Cho-Dzo Fest) melodious performance were among the evening’s highlights. Fashion designer Nen Wanglyu from Nagaland also made a special appearance, further enhancing the pan-Northeast representation.

After several competitive rounds, the top 10 finalists were Mahi Tamang, Sneha Rai, Bishama Pradhan, Priscila Rai, Jacqueline Pradhan, Urvashi Tamang, Kritika Sharma, Chandra Suri, Priyanka Bista, and Hiteyshree Ghatani.

The intensity grew with the common question round, followed by a serene classical music performance by Ringku and Kunal, paving the way for the announcement of the Top 5 contestants - Mahi Tamang, Bishama Pradhan, Hiteyshree Ghatani, Chandra Suri Poudyal Sunar, and Jacqueline Pradhan.

Following a stunning belly dance performance by Samir Tamang, the top five contestants engaged in a final Q&A round, where they impressed both the judges and the audience with their poise, intellect, and articulation.

Before the crowning moment, the chief guest was felicitated with a memento in appreciation of his support for youth and cultural empowerment.

The results were then announced to a thunderous applause with Jacqueline Pradhan crowned as Miss Universe Sikkim 2025, Bishama Pradhan as first runner-up, and Hiteyshree Ghatani as second runner-up.

Jacqueline’s victory was not just a personal triumph, but a monumental moment for the LGBTQ+ community, as she became the first transgender woman to ever win the Miss Universe Sikkim title.

Sub-title Winners

Miss Congeniality – Urvashi Tamang

Miss Best Ramp Walk – Diki Ongmu Sherpa

Miss Beautiful Body – Priscila Rai

Miss Popular – Jacqueline Pradhan

Miss Photogenic – Priyanka Bista

Miss Talented – Chandrashree Poudyal Sunar

Miss Beauty with Brain – Bishama Pradhan

Miss Sikkim Statehood Queen – Priscila Rai