The Nearly Forgotten Cultural Masterpiece Cuba Brought to Miss Universe
Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer may have won Miss Universe 2024, but Cuba’s Marianela Ancheta delivered the competition’s most unforgettable moment. Her culturally rich tribute to Oshún, the Yoruba goddess of love, brought history and identity to the global stage.
Cuba’s Return After 57 Years
After many years away, Cuba returned to Miss Universe with Marianela Ancheta as its contestant. This moment was critical. The country had not taken part in the festival since 1967.
And Ancheta’s performance on the first night was not just beautiful. It made for an influential cultural propaganda piece. Her costume was based on the figure of Oshún, an honored Afro-Cuban. It was an authentic Cuban outfit. The bright yellow dress with gold glitter represented Oshún’s ties to love, beauty, and strength.
A big crown resembling a Cuban yarey hat with sunflowers connected the outfit to farming and Afro-Cuban heritage. Performing barefoot gave a natural feel. It showed her bond with the spirit of the goddess.
A Tribute to Afro-Cuban Heritage
Ancheta chose Oshún as her inspiration. This choice showcases Cuba’s rich Afro-Cuban heritage. Oshún represents strength and motherly protection, as well as overcoming difficulties. These themes connect deeply with Cuba’s cultural past, highlighting Oshún’s importance.
The costume did not use the colors of Cuba’s national flag—no red, blue, or white appeared. This choice highlighted culture and spirit, not nationalism. Yellow and gold took center stage. These colors represent Oshún’s light and energy. They shone brightly.
Ancheta walked without shoes. This showed freedom and grace. It also echoed Oshún as the river queen. The dress had detailed designs. Her performance was very memorable. It stood out that evening with cultural meaning.
Defying Pageant Norms
Ancheta’s presentation was a breath of fresh air in a competition often dominated by glamour. Her unique style, rich in cultural elements, stood out and surprised everyone, adding an element of intrigue to the event.
Ancheta caught the eye at the swimsuit round in a dark blue one-piece with a low neck. This decision was different from the bright bikinis of regular competition. She was eloquent and unfussy, with an eye for elegance over flash.
In her national costume show, Ancheta didn’t just showcase herself; she shared Cuba’s cultural narratives. Her performance, rooted in authenticity rather than theatricality, made the audience feel a deep connection to the heritage she was celebrating.
A Celebration of Heritage
Ancheta did not win the Miss Universe crown. But she showed Cuba’s rich culture. Her tribute to Oshún and Afro-Cuban traditions was remarkable. Ancheta highlighted the strength of a nation. People often overlook Cuba.
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Cuba’s participation in Miss Universe was more than a contest. It was a critical cultural moment. Her performance linked identity with spirituality. Ancheta showed beauty as a bridge to history and tradition.
Marianela Ancheta showed Cuba’s strong spirit at Miss Universe 2024. She celebrated Oshún and Afro-Cuban culture, which added a fresh and genuine feeling to the event. It showed that beauty is in honoring and sharing roots.
