As the contestants touched down at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, they were greeted with a warm and colorful traditional Indian welcome. Dressed in ethnic attire, local artists performed folk music and dances, while guests were adorned with garlands, tilak, and aarti – offering a heartfelt introduction to India’s rich cultural roots. Among the early arrivals were Emma Deanna Cathryn Morrison from Canada and Jessica Scandiuzzi Pedroso from Brazil, both of whom expressed their awe and admiration for the hospitality and festive atmosphere.

Hyderabad to Host the Mega Global Event

The bustling city of Hyderabad has officially taken center stage as the host of the 72nd Miss World pageant, set to unfold from May 10 to 31, 2025. According to organizers, both the opening ceremony and the grand finale will be held in the city, making it a historic moment for Telangana. Venues like the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium and HITEX Exhibition Centre have been prepped to host glamorous events that will bring together global celebrities, dignitaries, and the world's top beauty contestants.

Telangana Government's Vision for Global Branding

More than just a glamorous occasion, the Miss World event is being treated by the Telangana government as a powerful platform for global branding. A detailed action plan has been drawn up to leverage the competition to enhance the state’s image internationally. Officials say the main goal is to boost tourism, attract foreign investments, and show off Telangana’s rich culture, spiritual heritage, and history. They see this event as a great opportunity to put Telangana on the global stage in a really meaningful way.

Promoting Telangana’s Rich Cultural Heritage

Contestants will embark on specially curated cultural journeys to witness Telangana’s timeless heritage. Their tour takes them to some really cool spots like the Ramappa Temple in Warangal — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — along with famous places in Hyderabad like the Charminar, Chowmahalla Palace, and Laad Bazaar. The idea is to give everyone a real feel for Telangana’s rich history, art, and traditions. It’s also a great way to inspire travelers from around the world to dive into the lively, colorful roots of the state.

Traditional Art, Handlooms and Cuisine on Display

The event will also promote Telangana’s rich craftsmanship, particularly its famous handloom textiles such as Pochampally Ikat, Gadwal sarees, and Narayanpet weaves. The participants will have the opportunity to watch live weaving demonstrations and even try on traditional garments. The cuisine experience will also be a major highlight, offering a taste of regional dishes like Hyderabadi biryani, sarra kura, and jowar roti, accompanied by local sweets and refreshments that reflect the state’s diverse culinary palette.

Global Exposure for Tourism and Investments

With contestants from over 120 countries and live broadcasts in more than 150 nations, the Miss World event is expected to offer Telangana massive global exposure. The state’s tourism department is promoting Telangana as a “Multidimensional Tourism Hub”—blending heritage, eco-tourism, spiritual sites, and medical tourism under one brand. In 2024, Telangana attracted over 1.55 lakh international tourists, and officials are optimistic that this number will rise dramatically in the coming years due to this global spotlight.

Medical Tourism and Wellness Promotion

In addition to heritage and culture, Telangana is positioning itself as a global medical tourism destination. With some of the country’s top hospitals like Apollo, Yashoda, and AIG, the state is already known for advanced treatment facilities. During their visit, contestants and international delegates will be introduced to Ayurveda, wellness retreats, and holistic healthcare options that Telangana has to offer. This is part of a broader strategy to attract health-conscious tourists from across the globe.

Security and Comfort a Top Priority

Telangana is taking no chances when it comes to the safety and comfort of its international guests. According to Director General of Police, Jitender, special security arrangements have been made with enhanced surveillance, dedicated tourism police, and a multilingual help desk system across key venues and hotels. The state has also tied up with luxury hotels, airlines, and hospitality providers to ensure seamless services, high-end amenities, and memorable experiences for the guests.

Cultural Exchange and Social Impact Events

The Miss World pageant isn't just about glamour—it also includes “Beauty with a Purpose” events where contestants participate in social impact initiatives. This year, the participants will visit local NGOs, interact with students, and engage in women empowerment workshops. Cultural exchange programs will allow the guests to share their traditions while learning from India’s diverse heritage, adding depth and meaning to their journey.

A Major Leap for Telangana’s Tourism Policy

The event aligns perfectly with Telangana’s new Tourism Policy 2025–2030, which aims to develop 27 new tourism zones, attract ₹15,000 crore in investments, and create over three lakh jobs. This policy focuses on developing infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism, and encouraging private sector involvement. The Miss World platform is expected to fast-track the execution of these goals by drawing global attention and support.