Miss Universe 2023: Prepare yourselves, fashion and beauty aficionados! The 72nd edition of the Miss Universe pageant is fast approaching, set to unfold in El Salvador on November 18, showcasing contestants from an impressive roster of 90 countries. Here's all you need to know about this year's event.

The buzz surrounding the global beauty extravaganza is palpable as anticipation builds for the crowning of the new Miss Universe. Scheduled in El Salvador on November 18, this grand event will witness contenders from 90 diverse nations competing for the prestigious title currently held by R'Bonney Gabriel from the United States. The selection process for the next Miss Universe involves various segments like personal statements, comprehensive interviews, and presentations in elegant evening gowns and swimwear.

The illustrious pageant will be hosted by TV personalities Jeannie Mai Jenkins and Maria Menounos, accompanied by former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo. Adding to the allure, the event will feature a live musical performance by the legendary 12-time Grammy winner, John Legend. The world will be eagerly watching as the next global beauty queen is crowned, promising an enchanting night of glamour and talent. Read on for more insights. (Also noteworthy: This year's Miss Universe pageant welcomes two transgender women contestants for the first time in its history.)

Where is Miss Universe 2023 taking place?
El Salvador has been selected as the host country for Miss Universe this year. The venue for the event is the José Adolfo Pineda Arena in San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, with a seating capacity of 13,000.

When and how can you watch Miss Universe 2023?
The national costume competition is scheduled for November 16 at 9:00 p.m. EST, following the preliminary competition on November 15 at 8:00 p.m. EST. This year's edition partners with Live Bash, a platform streaming both competitions live. Telemundo will broadcast it in Spanish in the US, and The Roku Channel will offer streaming access. Indian audiences can catch the final competition on Miss Universe's YouTube channel and X account, starting at 6:30 am on November 19, as per Indian Standard Time.

Who is India's representative in Miss Universe 2023?
Shweta Sharda will proudly represent India at the 72nd Miss Universe contest. The 22-year-old model and dancer, crowned as the 2023 Miss Diva Universe, originates from Chandigarh. Relocating to Mumbai at sixteen with her mother, Shweta pursued her undergraduate studies at the Indira Gandhi National Open University. Not just confined to reality shows like Dance Deewane, Dance Plus, and Dance India Dance, she also holds a choreographer's position with Jhalak Dikhlaja.

What makes Miss Universe 2023 noteworthy?
This year's Miss Universe pageant holds profound significance, marking a pivotal moment in the organization's history, emphasizing progress and inclusivity. Breaking barriers in the upcoming competition are Maria Camila Avella Montañez from Colombia and Michelle Cohn from Guatemala, the first mothers and married women to participate in the pageant, showcasing the event's commitment to diversity and empowerment.