Miss World 2025: All eyes on 72nd Miss World Pageant at Hyderabad tonight: India’s Nandini Gupta among top contenders | Meet Judges
Miss World 2025: The glittering finale of the 72nd Miss World pageant is set to unfold tonight at the HITEX Exhibition Centre in Hyderabad, marking a historic moment as India hosts the prestigious event for the third time. With 108 contestants from across the globe vying for the coveted crown, the stage is set for an evening of glamour, grace, and global celebration.
The grand finale begins at 6,30 pm IST (1 pm GMT) and will be streamed live in India on SonyLIV, while international audiences can tune in via select national broadcasters or the official Miss World pay-per-view platform at watchmissworld.com, where it will be available in HD.
India’s Nandini Gupta in the spotlight
Representing India this year is Nandini Gupta, a 20-year-old trailblazer from Kaithun, a small village near Kota, Rajasthan. Born in September 2003 to a farmer father and homemaker mother, Nandini's journey from mustard fields to the international stage has been nothing short of inspirational.
Her rise to prominence began in April 2023, when she was crowned Femina Miss India World, representing Rajasthan. Since then, she has been preparing to bring the Miss World crown back to India—home to six previous titleholders including Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999), Priyanka Chopra (2000), and Manushi Chhillar (2017).
Having already secured a quarterfinal spot through the fast-track challenge wins, Nandini stands tall among 40 semifinalists, grouped into regions—Americas & Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and Asia & Oceania.
Star-Studded night
The event promises more than just competition. Hosted by Stephanie Del Valle, Miss World 2016, and popular Indian presenter Sachiin Kumbhar, the night will also feature electrifying performances by Bollywood stars Jacqueline Fernandez and Ishaan Khatter.
Jacqueline, known for her dynamic dance numbers, will bring her signature charm to the stage, while Ishaan, fresh from his regal role in the web series Royals, will add a touch of cinematic flair to the occasion.
Adding gravitas to the evening is the presence of actor and humanitarian Sonu Sood, who will receive the prestigious Miss World Humanitarian Award. Sood, known for his impactful work during the COVID-19 crisis, is also a member of the five-member judging panel for the finale.
Meet Miss World Jury
According to the official Miss World website, the jury for the 72nd edition includes prominent personalities from various walks of life:
Sonu Sood – Actor, philanthropist, and humanitarian, recognised for his exemplary public service.
Sudha Reddy – Global Ambassador for Beauty With a Purpose 2025 and recent host of the initiative’s gala dinner.
Dr Caryna Turrell – Miss England 2014, public health expert, investor, and Fellow at Cambridge University.
Krystyna Pyszková – The reigning Miss World, who will crown her successor tonight.
Julia Morley CBE – Chairwoman of the Miss World Organisation, and the head of this year's judging panel.
Also expected in attendance is Manushi Chhillar, Miss World 2017, adding to the homecoming atmosphere of the event in India.
Weathering the Journey, Welcoming the World
India last hosted the Miss World pageant in 1996 and early 2024, and this edition’s return marks a significant cultural and diplomatic milestone. Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao has extended full state support, with Hyderabad emerging as a global stage for this momentous occasion.
- With inputs from agencies
