India’s Manushi Chhillar, a 20-year-old medical student, was crowned Miss World after a glittering pageant in China on Saturday.
Ms Chhillar is the sixth Indian to have won the coveted title after actresses Priyanka Chopra and Aishwarya Rai.
Indian leaders and Bollywood stars congratulated the new Miss World as the media and social media platforms celebrated the achievement for the country, calling it a moment of pride.
Thank you, everyone, for your constant love, support at prayers! @feminamissindia @MissWorldLtd #MissWorld2017 This one's for #India pic.twitter.com/kcnLV4C22P
— Manushi Chhillar (@ManushiChhillar) November 18, 2017
Dressed elegantly in light pink a delighted Ms Chhillar, the girl from Haryana, was quick to thank all those who supported and prayed for her victory.
India now is ranked equal with Venezuela, with both countries having won the most victories in the history of the contest.
Chhillar has trained in Indian classical dance, and is also a painter
She plans to open a chain of non-profit hospitals in rural areas.
Miss World 2016 Stephanie del Valle of Puerto Rico crowned Chhillar as she beamed in pride and exuberance at winning the title.
