In a world where women are often told to shrink, adjust, and stay within limits, Sherry Singh chose a different path—one that led her to a historic global stage. Becoming the first Indian woman to win the prestigious Mrs. Universe 2025 crown, her journey is not just about beauty or glamour, but about resilience, discipline, and breaking stereotypes.
From being an athlete with a dream to representing India on an international platform, Sherry’s story is layered with years of hard work, self-belief, and the courage to choose herself—despite societal expectations. In this candid conversation, she opens up about her journey, the reality behind pageantry, and the purpose that drives her beyond the crown.
Q. You are the first-ever Indian to win the Mrs. Universe 2025 crown. What was the exact moment like when you heard India announced as the winner?
Being an athlete, representing my country was always a dream. Representing India on such a prestigious platform was truly a dream come true. In that moment, after 48 long years, it didn’t feel like just my win—it felt like every Indian woman who dares to dream had won.
Q. How do the insides of the glamour industry really look?
Honestly, it’s not just glam and glitz—it’s so much more. There’s a lot of hard work involved every single day, from training to taking care of your body, skin, and mental health. It’s a constant effort that people don’t always see.
Q. What does it take for a woman to enter the pageant world today?
It takes a lot of courage, especially for a married woman with a child. We are constantly judged for putting ourselves first. You need to rise above what family, relatives, or society might say in order to achieve your dreams.
Q. When you won, what was the environment like around you?
It is a competition, but women are always supporting women. When I won in Manila, Philippines, everyone showed so much love and support. People were talking about how both Miss India and Mrs India had won in the same city—it was a very special moment.
Q. What kind of strict diet and routine did you follow?
I’m a vegan by choice, I don’t consume gluten, and I follow intermittent fasting of at least 14 hours. This has always been my lifestyle, so I didn’t really have to change much for the pageant.
Q. Is entering this industry in today’s era fruitful? How big is it really?
It completely depends on your goal. Before entering, you need to ask yourself why you want to do it. That “why” answers everything. This field requires passion because it’s a full-time commitment—it cannot just be a hobby.
Q. Beyond the title, who is Sherry Singh? What shaped your journey?
I come from a community where women are not exposed enough and are often taught to stay within societal boundaries. Seeing this from childhood shaped my purpose. I want to work towards women’s empowerment and development in every possible way. Even if I can bring a small shift in someone’s life, I will feel my purpose is fulfilled.
Q. As someone who has created history, what message would you give to Indian women who dream big but hesitate to step forward?
People are always going to talk—whether you stay where you are or take a step towards your dream. In both cases, it’s going to be hard. So choose your hard wisely, keep moving forward, and remember—life is too short to live with regret.
-KHIZRA KHAN
