Nalgonda, India – Contestants of the 72nd Miss World Festival from the Asian and Oceanic regions celebrated Buddha Purnima with a cultural and spiritual visit to Buddhavanam, a prominent Buddhist heritage site at Nagarjunasagar in Telangana’s Nalgonda district.

Immersing in Buddhist History and Spirituality

As part of the festival’s itinerary, the visit aimed to highlight Telangana’s rich Buddhist legacy, offering contestants a profound historical and spiritual experience.

The day’s journey included:

Stopover at Chintapalli guest house
Picturesque photo session at Vijay Vihar, set against the Nagarjunasagar reservoir backdrop
Guided tour of Buddhavanam, a 279-acre Buddhist theme park on the Krishna River’s northern bank

Exploring Buddhavanam’s Cultural Significance

Developed under Telangana’s Integrated Buddhist Circuit, the site showcases:

Mahastupa, known for its breathtaking drum and dome carvings
Buddhacharitha Vanam, depicting the life of Gautama Buddha
Jataka Park, illustrating stories from Buddha’s previous lives
Dhyana Vanam, dedicated to meditation
Stupa Vanam, home to the imposing Maha Stupa
Buddhist Heritage Museum, featuring ancient relics and sculptural panels

Spiritual Engagements and Cultural Performances

The visit included:

Meditative session inside the Great Stupa
Baillikuppa Maha Bodhi Puja, performed by 25 Buddhist monks
A theatrical performance depicting key episodes from Buddha’s life

Miss World Organisation’s Perspective

Julia Morley CBE, Chairman and CEO of Miss World, praised the visit, stating: “It is heartening to see the contestants not just participating in a beauty pageant but immersing themselves in Telangana’s cultural and spiritual heritage. This journey is a reminder of the unity in diversity that India represents.”

Upcoming Heritage Experiences

The contestants will return to Hyderabad for the next leg, featuring:

Heritage walk at Charminar and Laad Bazaar (13 May)
Royal welcome dinner at Chowmahalla Palace, accompanied by a live musical concert
Split heritage tours (14–15 May):
- Group 1: Warangal Fort, 1000 Pillar Temple, Bhadrakali Temple
- Group 2: UNESCO-listed Ramappa Temple, with a Perini dance performance
- Yadagirigutta Temple visit & Pochampally handloom tour, showcasing Ikat weaves

Looking Ahead

The Miss World Festival 2025, celebrated for its ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ motto, continues to serve as a platform for global unity, cultural appreciation, and social engagement.