India to host ‘Miss World pageant’ after 28-year hiatus 

New Delhi: India is poised to host the 71st edition of the Miss World pageant, marking a return after a 28-year hiatus, according to an announcement from the event organizers. The official Miss World page shared the news, quoting Chairman Julia Morley, CBE, who conveyed excitement for an upcoming celebration of beauty, diversity, and empowerment.

The last instance of India hosting the pageant was in 1996 in Bengaluru. Notable Indian winners include Reita Faria Powell in 1966, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in 1994, Diana Hayden in 1997, Yukta Mookhey in 1999, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas in 2000. The most recent Indian victor was Manushi Chhillar in 2017.

Scheduled to unfold between February 18 and March 9, the event will be hosted at prominent venues such as the G-20 site, Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, and the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. The Opening Ceremony and the ‘India Welcomes the World Gala’ are set to kick off on February 20 in New Delhi, culminating in the global finale on March 9 in Mumbai.

Julia Evelyn Morley of the Miss World Organization expressed enthusiasm for returning to India, envisioning the event as a month-long festival celebrating female achievement. Established in 1951, the pageant focuses on transcending conventional beauty contests to advocate for positive change through humanitarian service.

Munish Gupta, Advisor to the Miss World Organization in India, highlighted the opportunity to showcase India’s rich culture and traditions to a global audience. Each contestant will feature a dedicated media channel on MissWorld.com, presenting reasons for their advancement to the Top 20 finals.

Key competitions during the event include the World Top Designer Award & Miss World Top Model in Mumbai, Miss World Sports Challenge in New Delhi, and the Miss World Talent Final in Mumbai. The 71st Miss World Final, produced by Endemol Shine India, will be televised live from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm on March 9 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.

Rishi Negi, Group COO- Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India, expressed pride in securing the television production mandate, underscoring their leadership and excellence in event production.