Miss India 2023 Nandita Gupta in Hyderabad ahead of the 72nd Miss World pageant, set to be hosted by Telangana next month, on Wednesday (April 16, 2025.)
| Photo Credit: SIDDHANT THAKUR
As the global spotlight shifts to Telangana where the Miss World pageant 2025 would be held, Miss India 2023 Nandita Gupta views the event as far more than a celebration of beauty. In an exclusive interview with The Hindu during her visit to Hyderabad, she describes it as a moment of pride and transformation, with Telangana’s role as host marking a defining chapter in India’s evolving pageantry landscape.
How does it feel to be representing India at Miss World 2025, especially since the event is being hosted right here in India?
I cannot wait for all the Miss World contestants to come and experience what India has to offer. In our country, we don’t just pass down jewellery. We pass down love, heritage, culture, and values. That’s what I’m most excited to represent at the Miss World paegeant. It’s not just about showcasing what I’ve learned, but also embracing everything I will learn during this journey.
How do you feel about Telangana hosting a global event like Miss World?
Telangana is truly putting India on the global stage. I think the Miss World organisation made a brilliant choice by selecting India, and with the Telangana government’s support, it’s even more meaningful. When I first heard the event would be held here, it reminded me of a time when pageantry wasn’t taken as seriously. But now, with India hosting for the second consecutive year, it’s gaining international recognition. This event boosts tourism, strengthens the economy, and shines a spotlight on our local handlooms, crafts, and weavers.
How has your preparation for the Miss World event been?
The journey has been transformative. Over the next month, I’m looking forward to seeing how I evolve while interacting with contestants from all over the world. I believe in learning, unlearning, and relearning, and I know this experience will shape me from the inside out.
Miss World places emphasis on “Beauty with a Purpose.” Can you tell us more about your project, Ekta?
Beauty with a Purpose is a beautiful initiative. Julia Morley, who leads the Miss World organisation, says that while beauty fades, purpose gives meaning to beauty. That really resonates with me. My project Ekta is has been inspired by my maternal uncle, who has polio and a disability. Growing up, I saw how people were never truly accepting of him. Their love felt conditional, and he was often isolated. With Ekta, I don’t just want to help people like him, I want to empower them. I don’t need to create a massive change all at once. But if I can positively impact even ten lives, I know my purpose is fulfilled.
There’s been growing awareness around body image and inclusivity in beauty.
I believe every individual is beautifully different, just like our fingers. Some are long, some short, some strong, some delicate, but together, they form a functional hand. In the same way, every person has unique strengths and weaknesses. When we unite with purpose and compassion, we become a more powerful society. We’re not meant to fit into a single mould, we’re meant to stand out.
Published – April 16, 2025 04:24 pm IST
