Hyderabad, the city of pearls, is abuzz with excitement as it prepares to host the prestigious Miss World pageant, commencing on May 10.
The Congress government is leveraging this global event to establish Telangana as a premier tourist destination in India.
The competition, involving contestants from 116 countries, will commence on Saturday with a formal inauguration at Gachibowli Indoor Stadium and culminate in a grand finale on May 31.
Beauty queens from across the globe have already arrived in the city to a warm and traditional welcome.
Meanwhile, the city’s iconic Charminar and the historic Laad Bazaar will take the centre-stage during the Miss World 2025 celebrations, bringing global attention to the city’s rich heritage.
As part of the event, a Heritage Walk will be held in the Old City on May 13. Over 120 Miss World contestants from countries such as India, the USA, Venezuela, South Africa, Canada, Guadeloupe, Gibraltar, Martinique, and Curacao will participate in the walk, experiencing the culture, history, and diversity of Hyderabad first-hand.
The walk will highlight Charminar, built in 1591 and a strong contender for UNESCO World Heritage status, and Laad Bazaar, known for its 400-year-old tradition of selling bangles, pearls, perfumes, and Islamic handicrafts.
The event will be broadcast live in over 150 countries, offering a global audience a glimpse of Hyderabad’s charm. It is also expected to boost tourism in the city.
Preparations for the gala event are in full swing at Gachibowli Stadium, where over 109 contestants have begun rehearsals for the grand opening.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has directed officials to make elaborate arrangements for the successful conduct of the competition. He instructed officials to provide impeccable hospitality and implement stringent security measures throughout the event's duration.
The contestants will tour various locations throughout Hyderabad and Telangana, bringing valuable visibility to the region's attractions. A highlight will be the May 15 visit to Pochampally, a UNESCO-recognized "Best Tourism Village of the World" renowned for its intricate ikat weaving techniques.
The beauty queens will experience traditional tie-and-dye processes, interact with master weavers, and witness the making of the iconic Telia Rumal.
The Chief Minister ordered comprehensive preparations for contestants' visits to Hyderabad's cultural landmarks including Charminar, Laad Bazaar, and Chowmahalla Palace. He also directed officials to arrange visits to the DWCRA Bazaar, showcasing women's empowerment initiatives.