Hyderabad welcomes the world as 109 contestants arrive for Miss World 2025

by · The Hindu

Hyderabad has officially rolled out the blue carpet for the 72nd edition of Miss World contest, with 109 contestants already in the city and more expected to land in the days ahead.

The global gathering marks a first in pageant history, consecutive editions being hosted in the same country, India, and more precisely Telangana, that’s enjoying its moment of international spotlight.

Beauty with purpose

From Venezuela to Curaçao, Guadeloupe to Gibraltar, and of course, India to the USA, participants from across the globe have descended upon the city, each bringing with them more than just designer gowns and dazzling smiles. This year’s theme, “Beauty with a Purpose”, underscores the social advocacy work that contestants have engaged with, making it less about crowns and more about causes.

India’s Nandini Gupta will carry the flag for the host nation, while other standouts include Athenna Crosby from the USA, a media personality and actress, Canada’s Emma Morrison, who’s known for her advocacy for Indigenous communities, and Valeria Caññavo from Venezuela, a country that practically treats pageantry as a national sport.

Over the next few weeks, Hyderabad and the rest of Telangana will serve not just as hosts, but as a canvas showcasing heritage, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge innovation. The schedule is peppered with cultural showpieces, community visits, and purpose-led presentations.

The beauty contest will culminate in a grand finale at HITEX on May 31. Until then, the city will have a front-row seat to a rare blend of glamour and goodwill, with contestants poised to discover that Telangana’s charm goes far beyond the Charminar.

Published - May 08, 2025 09:10 pm IST