Miss Universe winner left shocked by host Steve Harvey’s question: 'Ridiculous'

Miss Universe India Harnaaz Sandhu took out the top spot during the the 70th annual Miss Universe pageant in Eilat, Israel, on Sunday night.

But while her win was praised online, viewers of the event have called out US TV host Steve Harvey for the bizarre question he asked Harnaaz during her question and answer segment earlier in the show.

Each of the top 16 contestants were posed a question by the host, with Harvey asking Harnaaz: "I hear you do some pretty good animal impersonations. Let’s hear your best one."

Clearly surprised by the question she replied: "Oh my god, Steve, I was not expecting to do this on the world stage." Though Harvey joked that she had "no other option".

RELATED:

• Osher Günsberg opens up about the future of The Bachelor franchise

• Martha details 'horrific' LA holiday as crime and violence takes over the city

• Husband's 'trashy' note to wife over Christmas present sparks debate

Other contestants had been able to talk about their passions, careers and philanthropic work, leaving many viewers frustrated on Harnaaz's behalf, and taking to Twitter to call out the question.

"What a ridiculous first question was that? Miss India had so much more to say," one person Tweeted.

"Steve Harvey really had Miss India meowing on the world stage bruh," another agreed.

While a third wrote: "OMG Miss India meowing at Steve Harvey is not what I was expecting to see tonight. Pretty sure the Miss Universe organisation could have asked a better question… very frustrating but she was nothing if not confident."

Miss Universe Australia Daria Varlamova didn't make it through to the top 16, despite making a show-stopping appearance at the event.

Daria debuted this year’s national costume for Australia during an earlier round of the competition, with the outfit an elaborate dress by Jonte Designs featuring ruffled layers, floral embellishments and a matching headpiece by Atelier Eight.

“They are representative of the beautiful landscapes and terrains of the Northern Territory and northern Western Australia,” she said on The Morning Show last month.

Never miss a thing. Sign up to Yahoo Lifestyle’s daily newsletter.

Or if you have a story idea, email us at lifestyle.tips@yahooinc.com.