The Miss Universe Manipur 2026 pageant will take place on June 21 at the Chandrakriti Auditorium in Imphal’s Palace Compound, with 20 contestants from different parts of the state competing for the opportunity to represent Manipur at the national level.
Announcing the event at a press conference, Miss Universe Manipur State Director and noted fashion designer Robert Naorem said the competition will serve as the official pathway to Miss Universe India 2026, where the winner will compete for a place in the internationally acclaimed Miss Universe contest.
Naorem said the pageant is designed to provide aspiring young women from Manipur with a platform to showcase their talent and gain exposure through one of the country’s leading beauty and leadership competitions. He noted that the initiative aims to open doors for participants and help them achieve recognition beyond the state.
Emphasising the broader significance of the pageant, Naorem said the Miss Universe platform has long championed women’s empowerment, encouraging contestants to become leaders, advocates and voices for important social issues.
In line with that objective, Miss Universe Manipur has partnered with the Manipur AIDS Control Society and For Better Kangleipak to undertake a range of community-focused initiatives. These include cleanliness campaigns, tree plantation drives, and awareness programmes on HIV/AIDS prevention and environmental responsibility.
The event will be directed and choreographed by former Mumbai-based model Sheetal Sharma, while contestant grooming sessions will be conducted by Noyonita Lodh, former Miss Universe India 2014.
Adding to the event’s profile, Miss Universe India 2025 Manika Vishwakarma and National Director of Operations Amzad Khan will attend as judges and special guests.
Naorem said the pageant seeks to nurture emerging talent from Manipur and provide participants with opportunities to compete and excel at national and international levels. Miss Universe Manipur 2026 is being powered by Kisna Diamonds & Jewellery, Thangmeiband, with PCTC serving as the co-power sponsor.
