Miss World jamboree begins with a cultural extravaganza in Hyderabad

The 72nd Miss World pageant kicks off with a vibrant cultural showcase in Telangana, setting the stage for the finale.

The 72nd edition of the Miss World pageant officially began on a dazzling note at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium on Saturday (May 10) evening, with a vibrant showcase of Telangana’s cultural heritage. The event opened with the State anthem and a declaration by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who was joined by Chairperson and CEO of the Miss World Organisation Julia Morley and reigning Miss World Krystyna Pyszková.

Hundreds of individuals began arriving at the stadium from as early as 4.30 p.m., eager to witness the inauguration of one of the world’s most prestigious beauty pageants. While the event was invite-only, those who had registered through the Telangana Tourism portal also secured entry, filling the venue with an enthusiastic and diverse crowd.

The opening ceremony was a colourful spectacle of folk and tribal dance traditions from across Telangana, choreographed in a parade-style presentation that celebrated the region’s rich cultural roots. A standout moment was a powerful performance of Perini Natyam by 250 children, setting the tone for the evening.

Contestants from 110 countries entered the arena in four continent-based groups, each welcomed with traditional music and dance. A Kommu Koya band led the procession, beginning with 27 contestants from the Americas and the Caribbean. They were followed by 14 contestants from Africa, greeted with a performance by the Gond tribe. The 33 European delegates were welcomed with the spirited Lambadi dance, and the group from Asia and Oceania, 22 in total, including India’s representative Nandini Gupta, entered to the beats of the Oggu Dolu.

“Today is truly a historic day. A day when a powerful message of peace is being sent across the globe with India and Pakistan agreeing to ceasefire. In recent days and weeks, we’ve all witnessed growing disturbances and hostilities around the world. And yet, despite that, global, national, and especially our State leadership here in Telangana have made it possible for us to gather and celebrate an event of such significance,” said Tourism Secretary Jayesh Ranjan.

The ceremony culminated with a flag parade, where each contestant carried her national flag into the stadium. The loudest applause of the night was reserved for Miss India Nandini Gupta, who was the final participant to enter, waving the tricolour proudly. The audience rose to their feet as the Indian national anthem played, marking a stirring conclusion to the inaugural event.

The Miss World finale is scheduled to take place on May 31 at Hitex Exhibition Centre.