After a “full figure” contestant donned a silver swimsuit for the Miss Universe Pageant, she got body-shamed for being too curvy to be considered a beauty queen. That’s when she hit back at the critics who called her some pretty horrible things.
Jane Dipika Garrett, the first plus-size woman to compete in Miss Universe, responded to cruel critics who referred to her as a “whale.” At 22, she proudly represented Nepal in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant where she showcased her beautiful curves in the swimsuit competition.
Garrett broke new ground as the first contestant who didn’t fit the traditional beauty pageant mold. While many admired her beauty and unique physique, some couldn’t appreciate her curves, especially when she showed off her silver swimsuit.
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Receiving a warm reaction from the live audience, Garrett shared, “I got the loudest applause from the whole audience. It felt incredible because it was a breakthrough moment for me and for society—they saw real-sized beauty.”
However, she was shocked by the negative comments on social media. “I see things like, ‘Oh, she’s a whale,’ or ‘Why don’t you go to the gym?’ They don’t even know what I’m going through,” Garrett expressed.
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She pointed out that comments about her body were “disgusting” and accused her of “promoting obesity.” Garrett clarified, “They don’t even know my backstory.” She revealed her struggle with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that can lead to weight gain, acne, and other symptoms.
PCOS, which causes women to produce higher levels of male hormones, has contributed to her weight gain. Jokingly, Garrett said she could gain a few pounds just by looking at a slice of cake.
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Garrett discussed the impact on her mental health, “It has taken a toll on my self-esteem. I had to relearn how to maintain a positive mindset.” She added that PCOS also makes her feel tired and affects her concentration.
Determined to rise above the negativity, Garrett said, “Negative comments from haters are their problem.” Always wanting to be a model, she admitted to starving herself to look like commercial models, despite being naturally big-boned.
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After securing a spot in the Top 20 of the Miss Universe Pageant, Garrett shared on Instagram, “The screams! I’m so so so happy with the support from millions! Thank you! Top 20 baby! What an honor to represent curvy women worldwide and my beautiful Nepal!”
Reflecting on her childhood, Garrett said she often compared herself to the “very thin” girls at school, which hurt her mental health. Now, she celebrates her curves and plans to launch a clothing line for curvy women. “Success is the best way to silence your critics,” she said.
