The Miss Universe 2021 pageant was being held on December 12, 2021 in Eilat, Israel. The glorious extravaganza is the 70th edition of the international tradition, where Andrea Meza of Mexico will crown her successor at the end of the event. The competition will feature the return of Steve Harvey as host, his sixth time overall.

Over 80 contestants, called “delegates”, graced the stage, showing off their natural beauty and talent in all the glitz and glamour that has become associated with the pageant. India’s delegate Harnaaz Sandhu would be crowned queen.

The pageant beauty was beyond gracious as she accepted the honor. She admitted she was “overwhelmed”, reminding the audience it has been “21 years since India got the Miss Universe crown and it’s happening right now.” The queen offered some encouragement, saying “[I] believed in myself, and that’s why I’m standing here today.”

Seen here is Ina Dajci, Miss Universe Albania 2021.

Click through to see more photos of the gorgeous gowns worn by your favorite Miss Universe contestants.