Jane Dipika Garrett made history in 2023 when she became the first plus-size contestant from Nepal to compete in the Miss Universe pageant.
Read: Meet Jane Dipika Garrett, the plus-size winner of Miss Universe Nepal 2023
Standing at 5-foot-7 and weighing 80 kilograms, Jane shattered beauty pageant norms —which typically favor a lean, svelte physique—as she secured a spot in the Top 20 during the semi-finals of the prestigious pageant held in El Salvador on November 15, 2023.
Jane's participation became possible when the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) revised its qualifications—permitting married women, divorcees, with children, transgender, and plus-size individuals to compete, and scrapping the age limit to allow those above 28 years old to participate.
According to the MUO, this shift sends a powerful message of inclusion and diversity, encouraging women to embrace their unique individuality.
ALL FOR SHOW?
A video that was recently leaked, however, seemed to contradict what the MUO said when it changed its rules and qualifications.
Read: Miss Universe’s credibility questioned over leaked video of Anne JKN
Based on the audio of the video, Miss Universe owner Anne Jakrajutatip can be heard saying, "This is a communication strategy because they can compete but they cannot win... social inclusion as people would say."
The statement has cast a shadow over the MUO, leading many to question the integrity of the pageant and the sincerity of the organization in implementing the revised qualifications.
In a statement addressing the controversy, the MUO affirmed that it "will not be swayed by unfounded allegations."
The leaked video was said to be a "manipulation of digital content and the distortion of facts for personal gain."
Read: Miss Universe Organization issues statement on viral leaked video
It further stated, "We remain committed in our mission to offer equal opportunity and honor the beauty found in every individual, regardless of background or ethnicity."
JANE SHARES HER THOUGHTS
Meanwhile, Jane took to her Instagram story to address the controversy, alluding to Anne's "they cannot win" comment as captured in the video.
She wrote, "Honey, I knew it was rigged from the moment I was on stage. I realized us 'inclusion' girls weren't ever gonna get a real chance to win."
However, Jane chose not to dwell on this, preferring to focus on the happy memories that the experience brought her.
"But it is what it is and I'm super happy for my experience there and the platform I've been able to create," she stressed.
"I have all my lovely fans and supporters and that's more than a crown for me."
