By Kavita Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News

Patna, April 12, 2026: In a proud moment for the state, Rupali Bhushan from Khagaria has been crowned Miss Universe Bihar 2026 and will now represent Bihar at the national-level Miss Universe India pageant.
Alongside her, Preeti Raj secured the title of Miss Teen Bihar 2026, marking a significant achievement for young talent in the state.
This marks the third consecutive year that official state-level auditions for Miss Universe India have been organized in Patna, further strengthening Bihar’s presence in the global beauty and fashion landscape.
Miss Universe Bihar: A platform for emerging talent:
The auditions were held on Sunday (April 12) at the NIFT campus in Patna, where participants from across Bihar competed for top honours.
Rupali Bhushan emerged as the winner among a pool of talented contestants, earning direct entry as a finalist in the national competition.

Nikita from Begusarai was declared the first runner-up while Khushi from patna secure the second runner-up position.
The judging panel featured prominent names, including Nikhil Anand, Manika Vishwakarma, Shambhavi Choudhary, Amjad Khan (Director), and Neetu Kumari (State Director).
Bihar’s growing presence on the national stage:
Speaking at the event, Nikhil Anand highlighted that the winner of the Bihar auditions gains direct entry into the Miss Universe India competition, calling it a powerful platform for young women to build careers in modeling and beyond.

Miss Universe India 2025 Manika Vishwakarma praised the participants, stating that Bihar is home to extraordinary talent and that the winner has immense potential to shine on national and international platforms.
Carrying forward a legacy:
The achievement draws inspiration from iconic Indian winners like Susmita Sen and Lara Dutta, who brought global recognition to India through the same platform.

State Director Neetu Kumari emphasized that the pageant is among the most prestigious in the world and serves as a gateway for participants to establish a global identity.
Empowering dreams from Bihar:
Over the past three years, the state has consistently organized these auditions, and it has opened doors for local talent to step onto larger stages.
The initiative not only promotes fashion and modeling but also empowers young women to pursue their ambitions with confidence.

With Rupali Bhushan now advancing to the national stage, Bihar once again finds itself in the spotlight, this time in the world of glamour, talent, and global opportunity.
Also Read: Miss Universe India 2025 Manika Vishwakarma receives a grand welcome in Patna.
EOM.