Mahi crowned Miss Universe Bangladesh 2026
Actress and model Samira Khan Mahi has won the crown of Miss Universe Bangladesh 2026. The crown was placed on her head at a grand ceremony held at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in the capital on Saturday night (7 November).
Her close friend and last year's winner, Tanzia Zaman Mithila, placed the winning crown on Mahi's head.
Every year, before the main global pageant, each country holds such a national selection, from which the chosen representative represents the country on the international stage.
With this national title, Mahi has earned the right to represent Bangladesh at the 75th Miss Universe pageant. The prestigious global competition will be held on 24 November in Puerto Rico, in the Caribbean, where she will compete against the finest contestants from countries around the world.
With very little time left before the final round, she is stepping up her preparations quickly. Mahi said she is taking the advice she needs from last year's winner and friend Mithila to get herself fully ready in the short time available.
After winning the crown, Mahi shared her feelings on social media, writing that it is not merely a dream or a crown, but a responsibility far greater than herself.
Expressing pride and gratitude for the achievement, she said this is not her moment alone, but a proud occasion for the whole of Bangladesh. She added that a new journey has begun — of working for the country with all the love in her heart.
Bangladesh has held pageants before to take part on the international stage. Shirin Shila was crowned Miss Universe Bangladesh in 2019, Anika Alam in 2024, and Tanzia Zaman Mithila in 2025.
But no past winner has brought home any notable success from the world stage. As a result, new expectations have now gathered around Mahi on the Puerto Rico stage.
On 24 November, Mahi will compete in Puerto Rico against the world's best. After her short preparation, that stage will decide the outcome of her journey as Bangladesh's representative.
