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Olivia Culpo 'never wanted to do' Taj Mahal photo shoot

Miss Universe opened up about the recent photo shoot at the Taj Mahal that could land her in jail for two years.

By Veronica Linares
Miss Universe Olivia Culpo. UPI/David Becker
1 of 2 | Miss Universe Olivia Culpo. UPI/David Becker | License Photo

(UPI) -- Miss Universe Olivia Culpo could spend up to two years in jail if found guilty of violating India's Heritage Act. But the U.S. born beauty queen claims she didn't "want to do it" in the first place.

Culpo came under fire Monday after pictures of her trying on designer shoes in front of the Taj Mahal surfaced online. Because brand promotion is prohibited at the world heritage site, the 21-year-old and her team could face up to two years in prison as well as a $1,600 fine if found guilty of the violation.

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The Archeology Survey of India was the one to lodge a complaint against Culpo and her agency claiming the photo shoot violated strict product placement rules at the Agra, India monument.

"Honestly I did at one point say out loud, 'Isn't this a little inappropriate?'" Culpo told the Providence Journal. "I was given directions to pose with the shoes and, honestly, five-inch heels on a 10-inch bench in 90-degree weather -- you know, I didn't want to do it."

"It's upsetting to me that I was a part of that. It's really upsetting because I loved my visit to India, and I would love nothing more than to go back, even in the near future," she added.

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Miss Universe officials released a statement apologizing for the incident and claiming the shoot was not intended to be used for commercial purposes.

"Throughout her reign, the Miss Universe Organization continually creates video diaries of our titleholder to keep fans and sponsors up to date on her travels and to share in the experience," the statement read. "As part of these videos, we sometimes incorporate sponsors into these shoots. The filming that took place outside the Taj Mahal was never intended to be used as a commercial nor was it meant in any way to be disrespectful. We sincerely apologize for any unintentional harm our indiscretion and insensitivity may have caused."

The 21 year old, who is currently dating Jonas Brother Nick Jonas, toured India for 10 days to promote charitable issues such as women's empowerment and AIDS awareness.

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