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Hans India
13-05-2025
- Hans India
Miss World Contestants Embark on Spiritual Tour to Buddhavanam on the eve of Buddha Purnima
On the eve of Buddha Purnima, contestants from the Asian and Oceanic regions of the 72nd Miss World Festival embarked on a spiritual and cultural journey to Buddhavanam, a significant Buddhist heritage site in Nagarjunasagar, Nalgonda district, Telangana. This immersive heritage experience, curated as part of the festival's itinerary, is designed to highlight Telangana's rich spiritual tapestry and centuries-old connection with Buddhism. The visit provided contestants with a deeper understanding of India's ancient traditions and values. A Day of Discovery and Reflection The day began with a brief stop near Chintapalli and a scenic photo session at Vijay Vihar, set against the tranquil Nagarjunasagar reservoir. The main highlight followed a guided tour of Buddhavanam, a 279-acre Buddhist theme park developed by the Telangana Government as part of an integrated Buddhist Circuit project. Contestants explored key attractions including: Mahastupa: An architectural marvel with breathtaking carvings and a lotus-petal sky dome. Buddhacharitha Vanam: Depicting key events from Buddha's life. Jataka Park: Showcasing tales from Buddha's past lives. Dhyana Vanam: A serene meditation garden. Stupa Vanam and the Buddhist Heritage Museum: Housing rare relics and sculptural narratives. The tour was enriched by insights from Dr. Shivanagi Reddy of the Archaeology and Tourism Department, who spoke about the significance of Nagarjunakonda, once a major center of Mahayana Buddhism under the Ikshvaku dynasty. Spiritual Moments and Cultural Expression Inside the Great Stupa, contestants participated in a peaceful meditative session followed by the Baillikuppa Maha Bodhi Puja led by 25 Buddhist monks. The day concluded with a captivating theatrical performance featuring 18 artists dramatizing episodes from Buddha's life. Julia Morley, Chairman and CEO of the Miss World Organization, expressed her appreciation, stating,'It is heartening to see the contestants not just participating in a beauty pageant, but also immersing themselves in the cultural and spiritual heritage of Telangana. This journey is a beautiful reminder of the unity in diversity that India represents.' Following this soul-stirring experience, the contestants will continue their cultural tour: May 13: Heritage walk at Charminar and Laad Bazaar, followed by a royal welcome dinner at Chowmahalla Palace with a live musical performance. May 14: Group 1 visits Warangal Fort, 1000 Pillar Temple, and Bhadrakali Temple. Group 2 explores the UNESCO-listed Ramappa Temple, complete with a traditional Perini dance. May 15: Group 1 heads to Yadagirigutta Temple, while Group 2 visits Pochampally village, a UNWTO-recognized site known for its exquisite Ikat weaves. As the Miss World 2025 journey continues, the spirit of 'Beauty with a Purpose' shines through- celebrating global unity, cultural exchange, and the timeless values of compassion and peace.
The Hindu
12-05-2025
- The Hindu
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.
