Muskan Sharma, a 23-year-old from Uttarakhand, India, has become a symbol of resilience and empowerment after winning the Miss Rishikesh 2025 title. Her victory came just a day after she courageously confronted a group of men who criticized her and other contestants for wearing Western clothing during rehearsals. The incident, captured in a viral video, shows Sharma standing her ground against Raghavendra Bhatnagar, a local Hindu group leader, who accused the contestants of violating Uttarakhand’s cultural norms. Sharma retorted by questioning why he didn’t target shops selling alcohol and cigarettes instead of policing women’s clothing. Her defiance, supported by fellow contestants and organizers, ensured the pageant proceeded as planned, culminating in her crowning moment. Sharma dedicated her win to her mother, crediting her for instilling the courage to stand up for what is right. Her story has sparked conversations about gender equality and the challenges women face in India’s patriarchal society. Sharma now aims to compete in Miss Uttarakhand and Miss India, hoping to inspire more women to challenge societal norms and fight for their rights.