As the world eagerly awaits the 72nd Miss World pageant, the excitement is palpable in India, where this edition will be hosted next month in Hyderabad, Telangana. Adding to the nation's pride is the fact that a bright and determined young woman, Femina Miss India World 2025, Nandini Gupta, will be representing the country on home soil. For Nandini, it’s more than just a competition — it’s a mission to bring back the prestigious Miss World crown to India and etch her name alongside legends like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra.
The 21-year-old beauty queen calls this a “moment of pride for all Indians” as she prepares to welcome 120 contestants from across the globe to India. “Hyderabad is known for its legendary hospitality,” Nandini says with a smile. “When they will be here, they'll be taking back a lot of memories.”
A Dream Rooted in Inspiration
Nandini’s journey to the Miss World stage didn’t happen overnight. She grew up inspired by icons who have previously held the blue crown — especially Aishwarya Rai and Priyanka Chopra. Both women not only made India proud internationally but also redefined success beyond pageantry, becoming global names in the entertainment and humanitarian worlds.
Talking about her idols, Nandini shares, “Aishwarya Rai and Priyanka Chopra have always been my inspiration. They showed the world that winning Miss World is not the end, but the beginning of something much bigger. They taught me that grace, determination, and using your platform for good can change lives, and I want to follow in their footsteps.”
Like her predecessors, Nandini hopes to use the Miss World platform to make a real difference in people's lives.
Beauty With A Purpose: Nandini’s Project
At the heart of the Miss World pageant is the “Beauty With A Purpose” (BWAP) initiative, and for Nandini, her BWAP project is especially close to her heart. Focused on empowering underprivileged youth through education and mentorship, her project aims to bridge the gap between dreams and opportunities.
“In a country as diverse and populous as ours, there are so many young girls and boys with incredible potential who just need the right support,” she explains passionately. “Through my project, I want to ensure that they get the education, mentorship, and encouragement they deserve.”
She has already started working with local communities, setting up skill-building workshops and education centers. “It’s not just about providing books and pens; it’s about building confidence and belief in them that they can achieve anything they dream of,” she says.
Feeling the Weight of Expectations
Representing a country of 1.4 billion people comes with a pressure that few can imagine. For Nandini, however, it’s a responsibility she embraces wholeheartedly.
“The thought that I could win Miss World in India, in front of my people, gives me chills every single time,” she admits. “There is a weight on my shoulders, but it’s a weight I carry with pride. I know that when I walk on that stage, I’m not just Nandini Gupta; I am India.”
Her voice softens as she adds, “Every prayer, every blessing from people across our country fuels me to be the best version of myself. I want to make every Indian proud.”
The Significance of Hosting Miss World in India
The 72nd Miss World being held in India is significant in many ways. After successfully hosting the 71st edition, India's selection for back-to-back hosting duties is a testament to its growing influence and love for international pageantry. Hyderabad, known for its warm hospitality, culture, and grandeur, promises to offer a memorable experience to the global participants.
“This isn’t just an event — it’s a celebration of global unity, culture, and dreams. It’s a chance for the world to see the heart of India through the spirit of Hyderabad,” Nandini says.
The contestants will have the opportunity to explore India’s rich culture, culinary delights, historic landmarks, and vibrant traditions during their stay — something Nandini believes will leave an indelible mark on their hearts.
Preparing for the Big Day
The road to Miss World is filled with rigorous training, countless rehearsals, and endless preparations. From honing her communication skills and perfecting her walk to staying mentally and physically fit, Nandini is leaving no stone unturned.
“My days start early and end late,” she reveals. “There’s fitness training, personality development, question-and-answer practice, charity work, and of course, time spent on my Beauty With A Purpose project.”
She is being coached by some of the best in the industry, ensuring that she is prepared for every aspect of the competition — from talent rounds and interviews to the final crowning moment.
But beyond the glamour and preparation, Nandini keeps her focus clear: “No matter how dazzling the lights are, I always remember why I started this journey — to make a difference.”
Manifesting the Seventh Crown
India has won the Miss World title six times before, with Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999), Priyanka Chopra (2000), and Manushi Chhillar (2017) proudly wearing the blue crown. Now, Nandini hopes to join this illustrious list.
“The day I wear the blue crown, it will not just be my victory; it will be the victory of every Indian who dared to dream with me,” she says, her eyes shining with determination. “It will be the moment when we bring the fame, pride, and the seventh Miss World crown back to India.”
She signs off with a promise — a promise to give it her all, to represent India with dignity and passion, and to inspire millions of young girls to believe that dreams do come true.
As the countdown to the 72nd Miss World begins, one thing is certain: Nandini Gupta is not just chasing a crown; she’s carrying the hopes, dreams, and pride of an entire nation with her.