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Erica Robin Miss Universe
Erica Robin, a proud Karachi native, recently secured the Miss Universe Pakistan title, marking an unprecedented achievement. Her journey to the Miss Universe finals in El Salvador this November signifies a remarkable first for Pakistan. While her success is celebrated by many, it has also ignited a mix of emotions. Ranging from support and jubilation to skepticism and controversy.
Erica Robin Miss Universe Vision for Pakistan:
When asked about her hopes for Pakistan, Erica is resolute about challenging the prevailing stereotype that labels Pakistan as a backward nation. She sees her participation as a platform to shatter these misconceptions.
Diverse Reactions:
Erica’s win has sparked a diverse range of responses. On one hand, models, writers, and journalists, notably Mariana Babar, took to Twitter to commend her as a shining example of “beauty and brains.” On the flip side Senator Mushtaq Ahmed, representing the Jamaat-e-Islami party, deemed her selection “shameful”. Simultaneously, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul-Haq Kakar ordered an in-depth investigation into the organizers of the Miss Universe Pakistan pageant. He raised valid questions about how the pageant was carried out under the national banner without government approval.
Controversy Takes Hold against Erica Robin Miss Universe
The controversy around Erica’s representation escalated as online conversations and critics insisted that she was representing Pakistan against the nation’s will. Kakar, the caretaker Prime Minister, characterized the pageant’s staging in the Maldives as a “shameful act,” going a step further to label it an “insult and exploitation of women in Pakistan.”
Reactions from Religious and Political Figures:
Reactions from Religious and Political Figures:Several prominent figures from the realms of religion and politics have joined the discussion. Islamic scholar Taqi Usmani questioned the decision to allow five young Pakistani women to represent their country internationally. He voiced concerns about how far Pakistan should go in participating in such events. Simultaneously, Ansar Abbasi, a renowned right-wing commentator and columnist, expressed his confusion on Twitter regarding the authorization for five Pakistani girls’ participation. He sought clarification on whether this decision was made by the cabinet or a ministerial advisor. In response to these questions, Murtaza Solangi, a former journalist and the current Federal Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting, clarified that government and state representation is the domain of official institutions. He emphasized that individuals or entities without formal government endorsement cannot claim to represent the state or its government.
Rare Beauty Pageants in Pakistan:
It’s essential to note that beauty pageants are a rare occurrence in Pakistan, a predominantly Muslim country. This unique aspect adds an extra layer of complexity to Erica’s participation. In an interview with the BBC, Erica shared her sense of pride in representing Pakistan on a global stage. However, she openly expressed her bewilderment at the backlash, speculating that the criticism may be linked to concerns about her participating in a swimsuit segment before a male audience.
Erica’s Background and Modeling Career:
Erica’s journey to the Miss Universe stage is deeply rooted in her academic and professional background. A graduate of St. Patrick’s High School and the Government College of Commerce and Economics, she launched her professional modeling career in January 2020. Her striking images have graced the pages of several prestigious magazines, including Diva Magazine Pakistan.
Erica’s Defense:
Amid the controversy and criticism, Erica remains steadfast in her belief that she has not committed any wrongdoing. She emphasizes that her representation of Pakistan on a global platform is entirely lawful. She sees herself as an ambassador who is working diligently to challenge stereotypes and not tarnish Pakistan’s reputation. In an interview with the Voice of America, Erica underscored her commitment to refraining from any activities that could harm the country’s image.
Conclusion:
Erica Robin’s journey to the Miss Universe finals is a momentous occasion in Pakistan’s history. However, her representation has not been without its challenges. The diversity of reactions and the intense debates reflect the complexity of perspectives within Pakistan when it comes to participating in international beauty pageants. Erica’s quest to redefine perceptions of her homeland stands as a testament to the power of individuals to challenge prevailing stereotypes and present their nation in a different light.
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