Ukhrul greets Esme SS with cheers
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik

Ukhrul, November 08 2025: Ukhrul denizens greeted Esme Singh Shaiza with joy and applause on her return home after the recently concluded Miss Friendship International 2025 held at China where she bagged the Miss Talent subtitle.

She reached the Top 20 of the beauty contest and was also appointed as the global ambassador of Jeeho Automobiles (China).

Shaiza is reportedly the first from Tangkhul community to represent Manipur in an international platform at the beauty pageant.

A brief interaction programme was held at Ukhrul Higher Secondary School Conference Hall Wino Bazar, Ukhrul organized by Ukhrul/ Hunphun Katamnao Long.

During the interaction, the reigning Miss Shirui Lily stated that it was a great opportunity for her to represent the rich cultural heritage of the State at the international pageant.

"The event was not only confined to the beauty contest but for the Chinese people it was a global cultural exchange programme.

We have to promote our rich traditional costume and attire through such an international platform", added Esme.

Sharing her experience in China, she said that she was inspired and impressed with the way the Chinese preserve their ancient cultural tradition although they are so modem and technologically advanced.

Further, she mentioned that whenever she wore the Tangkhul traditional clothes, people touched the fabric and were inquisitive to know and learn about the motifs.

Esme further mentioned her initial financial struggle before attending the Miss Friendship International contest at China.

She thanked the Tourism Department Manipur for the financial assistance, support from different individuals and well wishers.

Meanwhile, the president of Ukhrul Students' Union Thotdharin Shingnaisui expressed contentment and called Esme "the pride of our village" for representing Manipur.

Chairman of Miss Shirui Lily Organiser-2025 AC Raising extended warm appreciation for arranging the grand reception programme.

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