The 72nd Miss World pageant kicks off in Hyderabad

The 72nd Miss World pageant officially opened in Hyderabad on Saturday, May 10, bringing glamour and global attention—but also sparking political controversy.

Despite the Telangana government’s repeated claims of financial distress, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s administration is hosting the international beauty event, hoping to use it as a platform to boost Telangana’s image as a tourist destination.

Over the past few days, contestants from around the world have landed at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, greeted with fanfare and photo ops. They were seen smiling and posing with folded hands, proudly wearing sashes and holding their national flags. The state’s tourism tagline—“Telangana, Zarur Aana”—rang loud as the contestants cheered for the cameras.

However, the event has faced sharp criticism. Just last week, CM Revanth pleaded with government employees not to strike over pending payments, saying the state was nearly bankrupt and unable to take more loans. Critics, including opposition leader KT Rama Rao (KTR), questioned how the government could fund Miss World while claiming empty coffers.

The government denied reports that it was spending ₹200 crore on the event, clarifying that its actual contribution is ₹27 crore, mostly covered by sponsors. Officials argue that Miss World will showcase Telangana’s rich culture, heritage, and tourist attractions to a global audience.

Still, KTR slammed the Congress-led government for supporting Miss World after previously scrapping the Formula E race in Hyderabad, which he said had brought investment and jobs. Meanwhile, BRS MLC Kavitha Kalvakuntla urged postponing the event due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan, saying national focus should be on peace and security.

A tourism showcase for Telangana

This is the first time Hyderabad is hosting Miss World. Previously, Mumbai hosted the pageant in 2023, and Bengaluru in 1996. CM Revanth has directed officials to use the opportunity to promote Telangana globally, asking for hoardings and decorative arches across the city to create a buzz.

In the lead-up to the finals on May 31, contestants from 116 countries will tour Telangana’s iconic sites, including the Charminar, Chowmahalla Palace, Warangal Fort, Thousand Pillar Temple, Yadagirigutta Temple, Ramappa Temple, and the weaving hub of Pochampally. Their itinerary also includes Buddhavanam at Nagarjunasagar, Ramoji Film City, and even a visit to the Telangana Police Integrated Command & Control Centre (TGICCC).

Students from government-run residential schools will be invited to watch the celebrations for a day.

Following the finale, winners will meet the Governor and Chief Minister at Raj Bhavan on June 2, coinciding with Telangana State Formation Day.

Security measures have been tightened across the city, especially around key tourist spots and hotels hosting the contestants. Hyderabad Police have banned drones in these areas during the visits. Officials have also been instructed to prevent traffic snarls and power outages at event venues.

With ads splashed across airports and metro trains, the government is betting big on Miss World to shine a global spotlight on Telangana—even as criticism over its cost and timing continues to swirl.