From Madhubani to the Universe: Dr Shambhavi Jha to Represent Bihar in Miss Universe India
Patna: In a dazzling blend of intellect and elegance, Dr Shambhavi Jha from Madhubani has emerged victorious at the Bihar state audition for Miss Universe India 2025, earning her place on the national stage of one of the world’s most prestigious beauty pageants. The auditions, hosted at the NIFT campus in Patna, attracted contestants from across the state, but it was Shambhavi’s confident presence, poise, and individuality that won the day.
Organised officially by Miss Universe India, the audition is part of the pageant’s wider effort to spotlight regional talent and give young women from every corner of India a platform to shine globally. This marks the second consecutive year that Bihar has hosted the official state auditions, signalling a growing recognition of the state’s fashion-forward and aspirational youth.
Judging the event were Miss Universe India’s Honor Nikhil Anand, reigning Miss Universe India 2024 Riya Singha, Miss Universe Bihar 2024 Kajal Chaudhary, Miss Universe India’s Director Amjad Khan and Bihar State Director Neetu Kumari. Amino Pet Care partnered as host for the Bihar chapter.
“Bihar is amazing. The participants here have incredible potential,” said Riya Singha, adding that Shambhavi’s journey is just beginning. “She will now represent not just Bihar, but also Indian womanhood on national and international platforms.”
Shambhavi, who combines a career in medicine with a passion for advocacy and fashion, represents a new generation of contestants—confident, accomplished, and rooted in their regional identity. Her victory was celebrated alongside the announcement of the runners-up: Divyanshi Sachi and Rupali Bhushan.
Neetu Kumari, who has been instrumental in building Bihar’s presence in national beauty forums, noted the significance of this event. “This is the same competition that gave the world Sushmita Sen and Lara Dutta. It’s not just about beauty, it’s about vision, voice and versatility.”
The event was hosted by Miss Teen Universe India 2023 Trishna Ray and was graced by the presence of Miss Teen Earth India 2024 Tanishka Sharma and National PR Head Sarvesh Kashyap—both proud Biharis who are redefining beauty with purpose on global stages.
