73rd Miss Universe competition kicks off in Mexico City with dazzling National Costumes - in pictures

Miss Russia Valentina Alekseeva competes in the national costume competition at the Miss Universe Beauty Pageant in Mexico City. - AP

THE 73rd Miss Universe Competition is currently underway in Mexico City, Mexico. A record-breaking 130 contestants from around the world are participating, competing for the crown currently held by Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua.

The National Costume and Swimwear rounds kicked off the pageant at the Arena Ciudad de México, on Thursday. The champion will be crowned in a glittering ceremony on Saturday (6am Malaysian time).

Miss Argentina Magali Benejam. - Reuters

Miss Dominican Republic Celinee Santos. - Reuters

Miss Ecuador Mara Topić. - AP

Miss Japan Kaya Chakrabortty. - Reuters

Miss Uruguay Yanina Lucas. - Reuters

Miss Serbia Ivana Trisic. - Reuters

Miss Somalia Khadija Omar. - Reuters

Miss Denmark Victoria Kjaer. - Reuters

Miss Mexico Maria Fernanda Beltran. - Reuters

Miss Colombia Daniela Toloza. - Reuters

Miss Ecuador Mara Topic. - Reuters