(Image source from: Lupita Nyong'o declared World's Most Beautiful by People})

2014 surely is fast turning out to be the most momentous year for the Academy Awards winning actress Lupita Nyong'o.

After fetching an Oscar for the historical drama “12 Years a Slave” as well as a deal with Lancome Paris, the actress has now been named as “Most Beautiful” person by the People's magazine. Now that is a phenomenal rise to fame for a relatively unknown actress, isn't it?

Also, featuring on the cover page of the People's special issue of “World's Most Beautiful”, the 31-year-old actress couldn't help but gush with joy on the incredible accolade. The actress, who until now,  ascribed beauty to “light skin and flowing, straight hair” is nonetheless, proud of her achievement.

“It was exciting and just a major, major compliment. And especially, I was happy for all the girls who would see me on (it) and feel a little more seen.”

Felicity star Keri Russell is the first runner up with her alabaster skin tone and natural beauty while new mum Jenna Dewan-Tatum, with her chiseled cheekbones and perfect jawline, stood third on the list. Other names to feature in the list are Mindy Kaling, Pink, Amber Heard, Gabrielle Union, Molly Sims, Stacy Keibler and Kerry Washington.

AW: Suchorita Choudhury