Beauty meets Buddhism, Miss World 2025 contestants find solace at Buddhavanam
As the sun set over Buddhavanam in Nagarjunasagar on Monday, the fusion of beauty, culture, and spirituality brought the essence of Buddha Purnima alive as Miss World 2025 contestants from 22 countries visited the ancient site associated with Buddhism. Set against the tranquil backdrop of the Maha Stupa, the visit offered the delegates a deep cultural and spiritual immersion into Buddhist heritage.
The participants, all from the Asia-Oceania region, are among the 110 contestants currently in Telangana for the international beauty event. Representing nations including India, Vietnam, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Japan, Australia, Lebanon and others, the group engaged in interfaith prayers and rituals inspired by their respective Buddhist traditions.
Upon their arrival at the Buddhist theme park, the delegates were welcomed with a guided tour of the site. Dr. Shiva Nagi Reddy, an official with the Archaeology and Tourism Department, shared insights into the architectural marvels of the park. 'Buddhavanam is a testament to India's ancient Buddhist heritage and its role in spreading the message of peace and compassion across the world. It is a privilege to share this rich history with the world through the Miss World pageant,' he said.
Contestants explored various thematic sections of the parks, the Buddhacharitha Vanam, depicting Buddha's life; Jataka Park, with stories from his previous births; Dhyana Vanam, a zone dedicated to meditation; and Stupa Vanam, home to the grand Maha Stupa. At the Buddhist Heritage Museum, they viewed ancient relics and sculptural panels, gaining perspective on the life of the Buddha and the evolution of Buddhist thought.
The visit also shed light on Nagarjunakonda, once a vibrant centre of Mahayana Buddhism and capital of the Ikshvaku dynasty. Many of its ancient monasteries and stupas were relocated to the Buddhavanam site to safeguard them from submergence by the Nagarjunasagar reservoir.
The highlight of the evening was a meditative session inside the Great Stupa, culminating in the Bailli Kuppa Maha Bodhi Puja led by 25 monks, which created a profound moment of silence and introspection. The experience concluded with a theatrical performance by 18 artistes, re-enacting episodes from the Buddha's life, leaving the audience visibly moved.
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