Venezuela takes home the crown again

Eighteen-year-old Stefania Fernandez was crowned Miss Universe 2009 by the incumbent crown holder, her compatriot Dayana Mendoza, on Sunday night.

She became the sixth Miss Universe from the South American country, known for it beauty obsessed culture.

But 22-year-old Delhiite, Ekta Chowdhury, made an early exit and did not make the cut for the top 15.

Venezuela has won five Miss Universe titles, five Miss World and four Miss International crowns, more than any other country.

The first runner-up title is shared by Miss Australia Rachael Finch and Miss Puerto Rico Mayra Matos Perez, with the title of second runner-up going to Miss Kosovo Gona Dragusha, reported Los Angeles Times.

The televised event included musical performances by Flo Rida, Heidi Montag, David Guetta and Kelly Rowland.

Hosts were Billy Bush, co-anchor of "Access Hollywood," and Claudia Jordan, former Miss Rhode Island USA who has appeared on several TV shows. Judges include actor Dean Cain and supermodel Valeria Mazza.

Miss China, Wang Jingyao, was named Miss Congeniality and Miss Thailand, Chutima Durongdej, won Miss Photogenic.