India’s Manushi Chhillar has been crowned Miss World 2017 in a heart-pounding coronation night held in Sanya, China on November 18. She competed against more than 100 contestants and became the sixth Indian to have clinched the title, News18 reported.

This 20-year-old stunner is currently studying medicine and surgery to fulfill her ambition to become a cardiac surgeon in the future, her profile stated on the pageant’s official website. She also wants to open her own chain of non-profit hospitals in provincial regions in her country.

Message for mothers

During the final question, Chhillar gave out a very heartwarming answer that paid tribute to mothers. She was asked which profession she thought deserved the biggest salary and why.

She said that mothers deserve the biggest salary as they deserve “the highest respect.” She added that it is “not always about cash but also the love and respect” that a person gives. She also mentioned her own mom as a “huge inspiration” to her.

At the end of the two-hour episode watched by millions of fans across the globe, outgoing titleholder from Puerto Rico Stephanie Del Valle crowned Chhillar as the winner. She wore a glittering long gown throughout the night and kept her wavy hair down.

Andrea Meza from Mexico was declared first runner-up, while Stephanie Hill from England won as second runner-up. The delegates from France and Kenya rounded out the finalists.

Philippines

Miss World 2017 also paid tribute to a Filipino priest named Fr. Marciano “Rocky” Evangelista for his commitment to providing shelter to abandoned and homeless children in his country.

He was given the “Beauty With A Purpose Humanitarian” award which was presented by Miss World president Julia Morley.

Evangelista founded the Tuloy Foundation, a non-profit group that offers residential care services for “disadvantaged children.” During coronation night, he was treated to a performance by “America’s Got Talent” finalist Celine Tam who sang a rendition of his favorite song, “You Raise Me Up.” Father Rocky’s children beneficiaries participated in a video performance synced with Tam’s singing.

The presentation of this award came after Laura Lehmann, the contestant from the Philippines, failed to make it through the Top 15. Nevertheless, she secured a spot in the Top 40 after winning some fast track events, local news website Rappler reported.

Miss India’s journey begins

The winner of the pageant will begin her journey in several parts of the globe, attending charity events and galas with the organization. India’s pride Manushi Chhillar will join the long list of previous winners to have uplifted the vision of the organization.

“When you cease to dream, you cease to live. Courage to give the fight to your dreams and the ability to believe in yourself make life worth living,” her motto stated.
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