Miss Universe Pakistan Roma Riaz has taken a powerful stand against colourism, body-shaming, and social prejudice after facing online attacks questioning her appearance and even her identity as a Pakistani woman. Representing Pakistan at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand, Riaz addressed the criticism directly, sparking an important national conversation on beauty standards and cultural representation.
Her remarks come at a time when global pageants are under growing scrutiny for unfair norms, and when many South Asian women continue to experience colour-based bias rooted in colonial influence and entrenched societal attitudes.
Online Attacks Questioned Her “Pakistani-ness” Over Skin Tone and Body Type
In recent weeks, Miss Universe Pakistan Roma Riaz has been targeted by online trolls who mocked her darker skin tone and fuller body shape. Some critics even questioned whether she “looks Pakistani enough,” implying that only lighter-skinned women fit the standard image of national beauty.
Riaz responded firmly, stating that she would not allow such views to undermine her dignity or her role on the international stage. She emphasized that Pakistani women come in many skin tones, body types, and cultural backgrounds — and that none of these traits define one’s patriotism or cultural legitimacy.
“My skin is the same colour as the soil of Pakistan,” she told critics, addressing the backlash with both pride and clarity. Her words resonated across social media, with many young women praising her confidence and courage.
Condemning Colourism: A Deep-Rooted Problem in Pakistan
Colourism — the bias favouring lighter skin tones — has long been a social issue in Pakistan, influencing everything from beauty standards and marriage expectations to job opportunities and media representation. Beauty pageants, advertisements, and entertainment industries have often been criticised for promoting a narrow definition of attractiveness.
By using her global platform to challenge these biases, Miss Universe Pakistan Roma Riaz has reignited public debate. Social activists, celebrities, and women’s rights advocates have since echoed her message, arguing that Pakistani beauty cannot be defined by outdated or colonial-era standards.
Riaz highlighted that fairness is not a measure of worth or womanhood. She urged society to recognize and celebrate the full spectrum of Pakistani identities, rather than restricting them to selective stereotypes.
Defending Cultural Representation: Wearing the Sari by Choice
Another point of criticism she addressed was the backlash over her choice to wear a sari at Miss Universe events. Some social media users questioned why she didn’t wear other regional dresses instead.
Miss Universe Pakistan Roma Riaz clarified that the sari is widely worn across South Asia and holds cultural significance for countless women, including Pakistanis. She said her choice represented diversity, heritage, and artistic expression — and should be viewed with respect, not hostility.
Her response generated further appreciation from women who felt she represented a broader, more inclusive image of Pakistan.
A Message for Young Girls: “Be Proud of Who You Are”
One of the strongest parts of her statement was directed toward young Pakistani girls who may feel pressured by unrealistic beauty standards. Riaz encouraged them to embrace their natural features, their cultural backgrounds, and their individuality.
She stressed that global representation should reflect real women, not artificially filtered ideals shaped by social prejudice or online bullying.
Global Scrutiny on Miss Universe Pageant Adds Context
Her comments also come at a moment when multiple Miss Universe contestants have raised concerns about mistreatment, unfair judging criteria, and unhealthy standards. In this context, Roma Riaz’s stance adds a meaningful voice to the broader push for accountability and representation in global pageants.
Miss Universe Pakistan Roma Riaz’s response to colourism and body-shaming has become more than a personal defence — it has evolved into a national conversation on identity, representation, and the harmful stereotypes faced by many Pakistani women. Her message challenges deep-rooted biases and encourages a more inclusive understanding of Pakistani beauty on the world stage.