Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts & Entertainment Hub
The wait is over, the 72nd Miss World Festival has officially begun in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. From May 7 to 31, 2025, over 100 contestants from around the world, including Zimbabwe, will take part in a vibrant celebration of beauty, culture, and meaningful purpose.
Representing Zimbabwe is a 23-year-old Chemical and Processing Engineering student, Courtney Jongwe, who brings intellect and elegance to one of the world’s most prestigious platforms.
A press conference on Tuesday at the luxurious Trident Hyderabad Hotel kick-started the festivities. Attendees included Miss World Chair Julia Morley, Telangana Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao, prominent Indian government officials, and Bollywood actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood, who will serve as one of the festival’s main judges and receive a special social impact award.
Morley applauded Telangana for reflecting the pageant’s core mission, Beauty with a Purpose.
“It brings us great joy to host the 72nd Miss World Festival in Telangana, the heart of India. With its deep cultural roots, modern vibrancy, and exceptional hospitality, Telangana truly embodies our values. This state is the ideal host for a global celebration of beauty, purpose, and unity.
“We’re also excited to promote tourism here, it creates jobs and opportunities, and Telangana has so much to offer the world.”
Sonu Sood, a beloved actor and humanitarian, echoed these sentiments.
“To be part of this event in my home country is a dream come true… I am proud to collaborate with the Miss World Organisation and amplify our shared mission for a Cancer Free World,” he said, referring to his Sood Charity Foundation’s campaign against breast cancer.
Adding to the patriotic pride, Miss India 2025, Nandini Gupta, declared: “It fills me with pride to represent India on home soil. Telangana’s warmth and diversity will surely make this journey unforgettable.”
The festivities began with a grand welcome of the contestants at RGIA Airport between May 6–8. This will be followed by a vibrant Opening Ceremony on May 10 at Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, where contestants will be introduced amid traditional Telangana dances and music. The festival’s schedule mixes spiritual trips, cultural tours, food experiences, and modern innovation visits, showcasing India’s rich and diverse culture. Contestants will visit iconic locations like Charminar, Laad Bazaar, Chowmahalla Palace, and Ramappa Temple, as well as UN-recognised Pochampally village, known for its handloom artistry.
On May 26, the focus will shift to the contestants’ charity work with the Beauty With a Purpose event, followed by a gala dinner featuring dance performances and Telangana cuisine. The crowning moment will be on May 31 at the HITEX Arena, where one contestant will walk away with the Miss World crown, watched by millions globally.
The festival wraps up on June 2, Telangana’s State Formation Day, with a ceremonial High Tea at Raj Bhavan, where winners will meet the Governor and Chief Minister of Telangana.
With over 110 contestants uniting in Telangana, a place where ancient traditions dance with modern ambitions, this year’s edition is poised to take pageantry to an entirely new level.
As the world watches, Zimbabwe’s hopes shine brightly in India.
