Miss World 2025: Asia-Oceania Contestants Celebrate Buddha Purnima at Buddhavanam
Nalgonda, May 13, 2025: On the auspicious eve of Buddha Purnima, contestants from the Asia and Oceania regions of the 72nd Miss World Festival embarked on a mesmerizing heritage tour to Buddhavanam, a renowned Buddhist theme park at Nagarjunasagar in Telangana’s Nalgonda district. This cultural and spiritual journey, a key highlight of the festival’s itinerary, aimed to showcase Telangana’s rich historical and spiritual legacy, offering the global beauties a profound connection to the region’s Buddhist heritage.
The delegation, representing 22 countries including India, Vietnam, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Japan, Australia, and Lebanon, explored the 279-acre Buddhavanam, developed by the Telangana Government as part of an integrated Buddhist Circuit. The park, located on the northern bank of the Krishna River, is designed to illuminate the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha. The contestants were guided through its thematic sections, including Buddhacharitha Vanam, depicting Buddha’s life; Jataka Park, showcasing stories from his previous births; Dhyana Vanam, a serene meditation zone; and Stupa Vanam, home to the majestic Maha Stupa. The Buddhist Heritage Museum, housing ancient relics and sculptural panels, offered insights into the evolution of Buddhist philosophy.
The visit, coinciding with Vesak—the most sacred Buddhist festival celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha—featured a meditative session inside the Great Stupa, followed by the Baillikuppa Maha Bodhi Puja led by 25 monks, creating a moment of deep introspection. A theatrical performance by 18 artists, reenacting key episodes from Buddha’s life, added a dramatic flourish to the experience. The contestants also participated in interfaith prayers, reflecting the diversity of their Buddhist traditions.
Prior to Buddhavanam, the group stopped at Vijay Vihar near the Nagarjunasagar reservoir for a picturesque photoshoot, set against the serene backdrop of the Krishna River. The tour highlighted Nagarjunakonda’s historical significance as a Mahayana Buddhism center during the Ikshvaku dynasty (3rd-4th centuries AD). Dr. Shivanagi Reddy from the Archaeology and Tourism Department emphasized, “Buddhavanam is a testament to India’s ancient Buddhist heritage and its message of peace and compassion. Sharing this with the Miss World contestants is a privilege.”
Julia Morley, Chairman and CEO of the Miss World Organisation, praised the visit, stating, “This cultural immersion in Telangana’s spiritual heritage is a beautiful reminder of unity in diversity. It’s heartening to see the contestants engage beyond the pageant.” The event, part of Telangana’s strategy to promote its cultural and tourism potential globally, underscored Buddhavanam’s role as a world-class spiritual destination.
Following this enriching experience, the contestants returned to Hyderabad for the next leg of their journey, which includes a heritage walk at Charminar and a royal dinner at Chowmahalla Palace. With the Miss World 2025 festival set to reach millions worldwide, Telangana continues to shine as a beacon of culture and heritage.
