Rehearsals begin for Miss World 2025 opening ceremony in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: Rehearsals for the Miss World 2025 opening ceremony were held on Thursday evening of May 8 at Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, as contestants from around the world arrived in Hyderabad. The grand opening is scheduled for May 10, marking the start of the 72nd edition of one of the world’s most recognized beauty pageants.
Participants practiced stage movements, choreographed sequences, and cultural presentations under the guidance of event coordinators. Technical rehearsals included sound checks, lighting trials, and other run-throughs in preparation for the live event.
Gachibowli Stadium has been fitted with enhanced security measures, dedicated media areas, VIP enclosures, and fire safety systems. The opening ceremony will include performances by contestants and cultural acts from India and abroad, highlighting the international character of the pageant.
The Miss World 2025 competition officially began on May 8, with 109 contestants arriving in Hyderabad between May 6 and 8. This year’s theme is “Beauty with a Purpose”, reflecting the pageant’s focus on social causes alongside tradition and culture.
Among the participants are Nandini Gupta from India, Athenna Crosby from the United States, Emma Morrison from Canada, and Valeria Caññavo from Venezuela. The contestants represent diverse cultural backgrounds and are engaged in advocacy on issues ranging from indigenous rights to education and health.
Throughout the month, delegates will take part in events showcasing the heritage of Telangana, culminating in 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 in Mumbai in 2024.
The schedule includes the Talent Finale at Shilpakala Vedika on May 22, where contestants will perform in music, dance, and arts. The Head-to-Head Challenge Finale, assessing public speaking and communication skills, will be held at the Trident Hotel on May 23.
The Top Model and Fashion Final will take place on May 23 and 24, featuring a jewellery and pearl fashion segment and an interaction with leading Telangana designers. The “Beauty with a Purpose” presentation is set for May 26 at HITEX, where contestants will share the impact of their social initiatives.
India has produced six Miss World winners, Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999), Priyanka Chopra (2000), and Manushi Chhillar (2017). Representing India this year is 19-year-old Nandini Gupta from Rajasthan.
