Miss World 2025 contestants soak in Telangana's cultural tapestry at Bhoodan Pochampally
As the last rays of the sun turned the horizon golden on Thursday evening, the Telangana Tourism Park in Bhoodan Pochampally transformed into a vibrant stage of colours, culture, and celebration, welcoming 22 Miss World 2025 contestants from the African continent.
The contestants arrived to a traditional reception, with each being presented a Pochampally shawl or stole, a symbolic gesture that set the tone for an evening rooted in local heritage. A red carpet lined the pathway through the beautifully-decorated park, with floral arrangements adding a festive flair to the setting.
The spotlight of the evening was on Pochampally's world-renowned Ikat saris. The contestants learnt the intricacies of the weaving process, closely observing artisans at work and even trying their hand at spinning yarn using rattan. Dressed in bright Ratnam attire and adorned with mehendi, the contestants immersed themselves in the experience, blending tradition with elegance.
Adding rhythm to the occasion were the captivating beats of traditional Kinnera and Dappu instruments. Enthralled by the music, many contestants joined in, some even taking to the instruments and dancing joyfully to their tunes.
The interaction with artisans extended to a vibrant marketplace, where stalls selling Ikat items saw eager buyers among the group. Though the women came dressed in their own styles, they all left wearing a piece of Pochampally's iconic handloom.
Addressing the gathering, Yadadri Bhongir District Collector Hanumantha Rao said, 'This village holds immense importance not just for Telangana but all of India. Our weaver community not only weaves with thread but with heart, history, and heritage. Pochampally's Ikat received a GI tag in 2004, and in 2021, the village was recognised as one of the best tourism villages.'
Echoing the sentiment, local MLA Kumbam Anil Kumar Reddy noted, 'Pochampally is a historic city of weavers. The fact that it has Padma awardees among its residents speaks volumes about its legacy.'
The evening also featured a ramp walk, with models donning elegant Pochampally handlooms. The showcase drew admiration from all, with both contestants and visitors captivated by the grace and artistry on display.
In a parallel cultural visit, 35 Miss World contestants, representing the Caribbean and Americas regions, visited Yadagirigutta temple. A special puja was performed in their honour, adding a spiritual dimension to their Telangana experience.
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