Miss World 2025 kicks off grandly in Hyderabad, bringing 109 contestants to Telangana, India
Hyderabad: The 72nd edition of the Miss World competition officially began today, May 10, 2025, with a grand opening ceremony at Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad.
The event showcased Telangana’s rich cultural heritage, featuring a spectacular performance of the state song, “Jaya Jaya He Telangana,” composed by Ande Sri, followed by a mesmerizing dance performance, “Perini,” presented by 250 artists. Performances by Gussadi and Kommu Koya artists also captivated the international audience.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chief Secretary of the State Government, Ramakrishna Rao, Corporation Chairman Patel Ramesh Reddy, Hyderabad Mayor Vijayalakshmi, Miss World CEO Julia Morley, reigning Miss World Karolina Bielawska, and DGP Jitender.
The event also featured contestants from Latin American and African countries, who showcased their traditional attire and cultural heritage, delighting the audience. The competition began with the contestants from Latin America and the Caribbean, with Argentina’s representative making the first entrance, followed by Angola from Africa.
The rehearsals for the opening ceremony took place on May 8 at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, where contestants practiced stage movements, choreographed sequences, and cultural presentations. Technical rehearsals included sound and lighting checks, preparing the event for a smooth live broadcast.
Gachibowli Stadium has been equipped with enhanced security measures, media areas, VIP enclosures, and fire safety systems, ensuring a secure and well-organized event.
The theme for Miss World 2025 is “Beauty with a Purpose,” emphasizing the pageant’s focus on social causes alongside the celebration of culture. The 109 contestants from across the globe arrived in Hyderabad between May 6 and 8, and will participate in various events that reflect Telangana’s heritage, leading up to the Grand Finale on May 31 at HITEX Exhibition Center.
India is hosting Miss World for the second consecutive year, a first for any country outside the United Kingdom. The competition was previously held in Bengaluru in 1996 and Mumbai in 2024. The schedule includes several key events, such as the Talent Finale at Shilpakala Vedika on May 22, the Head-to-Head Challenge at the Trident Hotel on May 23, and the Top Model and Fashion Final on May 23 and 24. The “Beauty with a Purpose” presentation will take place on May 26 at HITEX, where contestants will share the impact of their social initiatives.
Among the contestants is India’s Nandini Gupta from Rajasthan, who is representing the country this year. Other participants include Athenna Crosby (USA), Emma Morrison (Canada), and Valeria Caññavo (Venezuela). The competition will also feature the “Beauty with a Purpose” segment, where contestants will showcase their advocacy for various social causes, including indigenous rights, education, and healthcare.
India has produced six Miss World winners to date, including Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999), Priyanka Chopra (2000), and Manushi Chhillar (2017).
