Hyderabad: The 72nd edition of the Miss World pageant is currently unfolding in the heart of Telangana’s capital, Hyderabad, India, from May 7 to May 31, 2025, drawing contestants from approximately 140 countries.
The event is being hosted at multiple iconic venues across the city, including the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, HITEX Exhibition Centre, Shilpakala Vedika, and heritage sites such as the Charminar and Chowmahalla Palace. These diverse locations symbolize the fusion of tradition and modernity that the pageant aims to reflect.
The pageant began with a spectacular opening ceremony on May 10 at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, where Telangana's rich folk and tribal dance traditions were showcased, setting the tone for a culturally immersive experience. In a striking blend of glamour and heritage, contestants later embarked on a Heritage Walk through Old Hyderabad.
This immersive tour included stops at the historic Charminar, the bustling Laad Bazaar, and the regal Chowmahalla Palace. Along the way, they experienced 'Hadrami marfa' and 'Naubat' performances, shopped for traditional pearls and bangles, and viewed priceless artifacts from the Nizam era.
Beyond the aesthetics, the event serves a broader mission. Telangana Tourism has positioned the pageant as a strategic initiative to boost global awareness of the state’s cultural and natural treasures. Highlights include promotional focus on destinations such as the Ramappa Temple and the Buddhavanam Buddhist circuit.
The event is also deeply tied to economic and cultural diplomacy, aiming to spotlight Telangana’s handloom heritage, culinary diversity, and historical significance on a world stage.
The itinerary spans nearly a month and includes key events like the Miss World Sports Finale on May 17, Continental Finale on May 20–21, Talent Finale on May 22, Head-to-Head Challenge Final on May 23, Top Model and Fashion Finale on May 24, and the Jewellery and Pearl Show on May 25, leading up to the Grand Finale on May 31 at HITEX.
Security remains a top priority with deployment of local police and armed reserves throughout all venues, while the hospitality experience for the delegates is being elevated with traditional Telangana cuisine—Biryani, Mirchi ka Salan, and Qubani ka Mitha—served during curated cultural dinners.
This year’s Miss World is far more than a traditional beauty contest. It embodies cultural diplomacy and global unity. Under the banner of "Beauty with a Purpose," contestants engage in talent shows, sports events, and socially-conscious challenges that emphasize inner strength, advocacy, and leadership. The initiative aims to highlight stories that inspire and create meaningful social impact. In a world often divided by boundaries, the pageant is becoming a celebration of shared identity, respect, and empowerment.
Local communities are deeply involved, with artists, craftsmen, and cultural troupes actively participating in ceremonies and performances.
The visual coverage has been stunning—from the vibrant ceremonial dances to the royal backdrops of photo shoots at the Charminar and Chowmahalla Palace. These images not only boost media appeal but also create a visual archive of global culture engaging with India’s historical soul.
The background to this historic hosting lies in India’s growing ambition to project soft power through international cultural events. Telangana’s government, tourism department, and hospitality industry have jointly worked to create an unforgettable experience for both contestants and the global audience.
With a strategic blend of modern pageantry and ancient culture, Miss World 2025 in Hyderabad is setting a precedent for how such international events can act as vehicles for empowerment, tourism, and cultural legacy.
