After backlash over Jackielyn’s costume, CEO Bijay Subba issues clarification

Sikkim’s representative at Miss Universe India 2025, Jackielyn Pradhan, has found herself caught in a storm of criticism following her presentation in the National Costume Round of the beauty pageant. What was meant to be a celebration of Sikkim’s rich culture and its 50th statehood anniversary has now turned into a subject of heated debate, particularly concerning the sentiments of the Limboo community.

The controversy began after Pradhan appeared in her state costume, which included an ornament resembling the Samyangphung. For the Limboo people, the Samyangphung is not just jewellery—it is a sacred cultural symbol that holds deep spiritual and traditional value. Traditionally, it is worn with respect on the head by Limboo women during cultural and religious occasions. However, in the design presented on stage, the ornament was placed below the waist in the front. This design choice was immediately flagged as “deeply objectionable” by the Sukhim Yakthung Sapsok Songchumbho (SYSS), a community organisation representing the Limboos in Sikkim.

In a statement, SYSS expressed strong condemnation. “Samyangphung is not a mere ornament—it is a sacred cultural symbol. Its placement inappropriately below the waist is hurtful to the sentiments of the Limboo community,” the organisation said, adding that such depictions risk distorting the community’s heritage on a national stage. They also demanded a public clarification from both Pradhan and her designer.

The issue has quickly spread across social media platforms, with sharp reactions pouring in. While some criticised the use of cultural symbols in what they viewed as an insensitive manner, others argued for restraint, suggesting that the episode should instead be used as an opportunity to spread awareness about the cultural significance of the Samyangphung.

Amid the growing criticism, Bijay Subba, CEO of Positude and closely associated with the design process, came forward with an explanatory video. In his message, Subba acknowledged the concerns but insisted that there was no intention to disrespect the Limboo culture.

“Before I explain why I came forward to make this video, let me say that on our Positude Facebook page, as well as across social media, there have been many comments, and I have even received phone calls,” Subba said. “From Universe India, when our Jacqueline was presenting on the stage light, as part of celebrating our fiftieth state anniversary, it was she who had designed it. Some people raised questions, saying that in the process of designing, we touched on culture, and according to them, it did not fully represent the Limboo culture, or that some unwanted symbols were used. That is why misunderstandings seem to be spreading.”

Clarifying further, Subba said that the costume was meant to showcase the state as a whole, not target or misrepresent any particular community. “To everyone listening and watching, I want to make it clear that this has nothing to do with culture. The idea was only to represent our whole state, and to showcase it. Whatever people may assume, or however they may take it, that was not our intention,” he explained.

He also told the critics that he himself belongs to the Limboo community and would never intentionally design something against it. “I too am a Limbu, and that is why I request everyone to understand this,” he said, appealing for calm.

Expressing both happiness and sadness, Subba noted that while it was a proud moment to see Sikkim represented at a national platform like Miss Universe India, it was also painful to witness the backlash. “Inside me, there is also joy that we were able to reach here, and at the same time, I also feel pain seeing the criticism. But I request all of you, please, instead of creating negativity, support our Jacqueline, who worked hard with dedication. Please support her tomorrow in the grand finale, and extend your best wishes,” he added.