Shani Kumari Singh was crowned Miss India-Canada 2005 from among 15 talented hopefuls at a gala function in Toronto recently.

Singh, a 20-year-old from Waterloo, Ontario, is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree and wants to become a pediatrician. She will promote the Canadian Cancer Society as part of the title winner's duty.

The event was graced by Bollywood actress Tanuja.

The contestants demonstrated their talent in the cultural round besides walking the ramp in Indian costumes and evening gowns, which the judges evaluated before selecting the top three contenders.

The five finalists included Narin Fahmiya Ahmed; Soniya Monga; Gurpreet Pooni; and Shagun Priya Sharma, apart from Singh.

Ahmed was the first runner-up and Monga second runner-up.

The Rogers Wireless Ms. Congeniality Award went to Natasha Virmani.

MP Gurbux Malhi presented special guest Tanuja with a certificate of appreciation on behalf of Prime Minister Paul Martin.