Warangal turned into a vibrant celebration spot on Wednesday as the city welcomed participants of the 72nd Miss World pageant. The historic city sparkled with excitement as 57 contestants arrived at the Haritha Hotel in Hanumakonda, ready to explore some of Telangana's most treasured landmarks.
The visitors split into two groups. One group visited the famous Thousand Pillar Temple and the ancient Warangal Fort, while the other headed to the Ramappa Temple in Palampet, located in Mulugu district. This remarkable temple, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 25, 2021, is over 800 years old and showcases the brilliance of Kakatiya architecture.
Dressed in traditional Telugu attire, the contestants received a warm Telangana-style welcome with the colorful Bathukamma ritual. At Warangal Fort, they enjoyed the dazzling laser lights and eagerly snapped selfies, soaking in the historic atmosphere.
At Ramappa Temple, the second group admired the temple’s intricate stone carvings and the unique floating bricks used in its ceiling. Local Adivasi communities greeted them with traditional ceremonies. The contestants took part in a vibrant photoshoot, capturing the temple’s ancient beauty.
They also explored nearby stalls, buying spiritual souvenirs and puja items, and spoke with local artisans and vendors. A symbolic puja ceremony allowed them to learn more about the temple’s mythological significance from its priests.
One of the day’s highlights was a live performance of the Perini dance, a powerful and expressive warrior dance once performed by Kakatiya soldiers before battle. The intense rhythms and dramatic movements left the audience in awe.
Julia Morley CBE, Chair and CEO of the Miss World Organization, praised the experience. “Watching the contestants walk through centuries of devotion, art, and culture is incredibly moving,” she said. “This journey is more than a celebration—it’s a spiritual connection to India’s soul.”
Earlier in the day, Warangal and Hanumakonda District Collectors, P Pravinya and Satya Sharada, extended a grand welcome to the pageant participants at the hotel.
The day blended tradition, history, and beauty—giving the contestants a deep and unforgettable taste of Telangana’s rich cultural heritage.
