Source :NEWS18 NEWS
Last Updated:May 15, 2025, 10:12 IST
Miss World 2025 contestants brought global grace to Telangana’s timeless Ramappa Temple.
The 72nd Miss World Festival’s heritage itinerary continued with a mesmerizing exploration of Telangana’s spiritual legacy. Contestants from the European region embarked on an unforgettable journey to the iconic Ramappa Temple, seamlessly blending history with modern elegance.
A dazzling fusion of heritage and high fashion unfolded on Wednesday evening as 35 Miss World 2025 contestants from across Europe arrived at the iconic Ramappa Temple in Telangana’s Mulugu district. The centuries-old marvel, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the majestic backdrop for a cultural immersion unlike any other.
The ancient temple grounds were transformed into a celebration of Indian tradition and global unity. A red carpet rolled out at the entrance set the tone for an unforgettable evening steeped in culture. Draped in vibrant saris and adorned with jasmine flowers in their hair, the contestants received a traditional welcome, including the ceremonial washing of feet—marking respect for the sanctity of the temple space.
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Guided by local historians and cultural scholars, the visitors explored the architectural brilliance of the Ramappa Temple, built during the reign of the Kakatiya dynasty. Highlights included the temple’s renowned lightweight “floating bricks,” sculpted pillars, and intricate carvings that have withstood the test of time and continue to inspire awe.
As twilight descended, the temple complex was bathed in dramatic lighting, elevating its sculptural beauty and adding to the surreal ambience. Guests and contestants gathered on the temple lawns for a cultural showcase that spotlighted Telangana’s indigenous pride.
Addressing the gathering, Minister for Women and Child Welfare Danasari Anasuya (popularly known as Seethakka) remarked, “Mulugu is not just geography—it’s a legacy of resilience and cultural richness. Our tribal icons, Sammakka and Saralamma, exemplify the strength, fearlessness, and dignity of women.”
District Collector T.S. Divakara echoed the sentiment: “The Ramappa Temple is more than a monument—it’s a narrative carved in stone. We’re honoured to share it with global representatives who are more than beauty queens—they are cultural ambassadors.”
The cultural programme opened with a stirring dance tribute to Queen Rudrama Devi, the legendary Kakatiya monarch known for her leadership and valour. Blending classical technique with martial movement, the performance enthralled the audience with its intensity and storytelling. This was followed by a vibrant Perini dance presentation, a warrior’s dance rooted in Telangana’s ancient martial traditions.
A spectacular light-and-sound show then brought the temple’s 800-year-old story to life, using projection mapping on its stone façade to narrate its architectural and spiritual significance.
As the evening drew to a close, each of the 35 contestants was presented with handcrafted bamboo artefacts—tokens of Telangana’s artisanal heritage—by Minister Seethakka.
Meanwhile, in a parallel itinerary, 22 Miss World 2025 contestants from the Caribbean and Americas visited the Thousand Pillar Temple and Warangal Fort, gaining a deeper appreciation of the region’s layered history and grand architecture.
From regal temples to timeless traditions, the evening at Ramappa Temple was not just a celebration of beauty, but of cultural confluence—where the past met the present in a stunning tribute to India’s living heritage.
- First Published:
May 15, 2025, 10:12 IST
SOURCE : NEWS 18
