The 72nd Miss World Festival officially began on May 10 with an elaborate and colorful inauguration ceremony at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad, marking the start of a month-long tribute to global beauty, cultural diversity, and humanitarian ideals. The launch of the prestigious event was underscored by a powerful message of peace and unity, in keeping with the pageant’s long-standing mission of promoting “Beauty with a Purpose.”
The opening event highlighted Telangana’s rich and vibrant cultural identity. Attendees witnessed energetic performances of various traditional folk and tribal dances, including Perini, Kommu Koya, Lambada, and Oggu Dolu. These displays were more than just entertainment; they served as a heartfelt welcome to over 110 contestants from across the globe and showcased the unique traditions and spirit of Telangana. This lively cultural representation not only enchanted the audience but also set an uplifting and inclusive tone for the upcoming festival events.
Among the notable dignitaries present at the inauguration was Telangana’s Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, who gave a warm greeting to all the participants. The official opening declaration of the Festival in Telangana was made by Julia Morley, CBE, Chairman and CEO of Miss World Limited. Her address emphasized the significance of this event being held in such a culturally rich region.
Julia Morley expressed her excitement by saying, “We are thrilled to bring the Miss World festival to Telangana, a place where tradition beautifully intertwines with innovation. This year’s pageant reflects the spirit of world unity, peace and cultural appreciation, and I am excited to witness the remarkable journeys of each contestant as they inspire the world.”
Jayesh Ranjan, who holds the Full Additional Charge (FAC) as Special Chief Secretary in Telangana’s Youth Advancement, Tourism and Culture Department, also extended a cordial welcome to the international participants. He remarked on the significance of the occasion, noting, “It is a historic day as the 72nd Miss World opens in Telangana. Today will be marked as a significant moment where a powerful message of peace is being conveyed to the world. I wish all the contestants to also become ambassadors of peace in their respective countries.”
Reigning Miss World Krystyna Pyszková, reflecting on her own reign and the importance of the event, expressed gratitude towards the hosts. “A heartfelt thank you to the government of Telangana for welcoming all the contestants with open hearts. I encourage all the contestants to showcase the rich heritage of their countries and be the voices of their communities. I am proud to have been crowned the 71st Miss World in India, and it is an honor to pass my crown in this incredible country once again,” she stated.
The inauguration also featured a visually stunning parade of contestants. Each participant introduced herself while proudly carrying her nation’s flag, creating a memorable scene of unity through diversity. The parade not only allowed the contestants to present their personal and cultural identities but also celebrated the global spirit of the Miss World platform.
In addition to the pageant itself, the 72nd Miss World Festival includes an itinerary rich with cultural, spiritual, and charitable engagements. On May 12, the contestants are scheduled to visit Buddhavanam, a sacred Buddhist site at Nagarjunasagar, offering them an opportunity to connect with India’s spiritual heritage. This will be followed by a heritage walk through Charminar and Laad Bazaar on May 13, allowing the contestants to explore the historical and commercial heart of Hyderabad. A royal welcome dinner at the majestic Chowmahalla Palace will also be held, featuring a live musical concert to further showcase the region’s grandeur and hospitality.
The pageant has received robust support from various partners. Trident has come on board as the Official Hospitality Partner, renowned for its top-tier services and luxurious accommodations, thus ensuring that contestants experience a high standard of comfort during their stay. HITEX, the Venue Partner, provides state-of-the-art facilities that are in perfect sync with the international scope and elegance of the Miss World Festival.
Viewers around the globe will be able to follow the festivities through digital streaming. The entire Miss World Festival is being exclusively streamed on Sony LIV, the official streaming partner. Audiences can also stay updated through regular posts and updates on the official website (www.missworld.com) and the pageant’s Instagram handle @missworld.
The grand finale of the 72nd Miss World Festival is scheduled for May 31, concluding a month filled with festivities, cross-cultural connections, and efforts to champion meaningful causes under the umbrella of “Beauty with a Purpose.”
From its impressive inauguration to its diverse and meaningful schedule of events, the 72nd edition of Miss World is shaping up to be a memorable chapter in the pageant’s history, celebrating not only beauty but also culture, unity, and humanitarian spirit.