Hyderabad glittered with lights, culture, and global glamor on May 31, 2025, as Thailand's Opal Suchata Chuangsri was crowned Miss World 2025 during the 72nd edition of the iconic pageant.
The HITEX Exhibition Centre was the epicenter of a dazzling celebration that combined elegance, intellect, and humanitarian spirit.
Crowned by outgoing Miss World Krystyna Pyszkova, Opal's win was not only a triumph of beauty but also a powerful statement about grace, leadership, and inspiration.
A Winning Answer with Heart
During the much-anticipated question-and-answer round, judge Sonu Sood posed a thought-provoking question to Opal:
“What has your Miss World journey taught you about the truth and personal responsibility in shaping how stories are told?”
Her reply, delivered with composure and wisdom, moved the audience:
“Be the person that someone or the other will look up to. I always believe that no matter who you are, how old you are, or what title you hold, there is always someone—whether it’s a child, an adult, or even your parents—who looks up to you. The best way to lead is to lead with grace in your actions. That is the best thing we can give to the people around us and to the world.”
Her response drew thunderous applause and admiration from both the judges and the global audience. It wasn’t just eloquence—it was a message rooted in authenticity and purpose.
From Miss World Thailand to Global Icon
Opal was crowned Miss World Thailand 2025 just weeks before the international finale, on April 22. Already familiar with the international pageant scene, she had previously represented Thailand in Miss Universe 2024, where she placed as third runner-up.
This historic Miss World win has not only made her a national hero but also elevated her to the status of a global role model. Her poise, values, and intellect reflect a new era of pageantry where beauty meets purpose.
Celebrating Global Diversity and Purpose
The 72nd Miss World was more than just a contest—it was a global festival of unity, compassion, and cultural celebration. Hosted in India for the third time (after 1996 and 2024), this year’s pageant transformed Hyderabad into a buzzing hub of global elegance and philanthropic energy.
Over 108 contestants from across the world spent a month exploring Telangana’s rich culture, participating in philanthropic challenges, and engaging in purpose-driven initiatives. The result was a powerful narrative of sisterhood, shared goals, and social responsibility.
The grand finale night featured not just beauty, but bold messages and unforgettable moments of empowerment.
First Runner-Up: Ethiopia’s Historic Rise
Among the most inspiring moments of the evening was the crowning of Hasset Dereje from Ethiopia as the first runner-up—the first Ethiopian to reach this level in Miss World history.
When asked by judge Rana Daggubati what it meant to be a beauty queen, Dereje delivered a powerful statement:
“A lot of people think Miss World is just another pageant or beauty contest. But it is more than that. There are so many children and mothers behind me who benefit from me standing here. I am the first ever Ethiopian to make it this far, and I hold so much pride in it.”
Her words resonated with millions and highlighted how deeply personal and impactful the pageant can be.
A Night of Glamour, Music, and Recognition
Hosted by Stephanie del Valle (Miss World 2016) and Indian presenter Sachiin Kumbhar, the event featured a spectacular entertainment lineup. Bollywood stars Jacqueline Fernandez and Ishaan Khatter brought the house down with energetic performances, including a lively tribute to the Oscar-winning song Naatu Naatu.
Awards of significance included:
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Beauty with a Purpose Award: Monica Kezia Sembiring (Indonesia)
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Miss World Humanitarian Award: Presented to Sonu Sood for his tremendous social contributions
The jury panel featured prominent names such as:
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Julia Morley CBE, Chairwoman of Miss World
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Manushi Chhillar, Miss World 2017
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Actor Namrata Shirodkar
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Telangana’s Special Chief Secretary for Tourism, Jayesh Ranjan
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Sudha Reddy, Global Ambassador for Beauty with a Purpose 2025
High-profile guests included Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and film icon Chiranjeevi, adding to the event’s prestige.
A Legacy of Empowerment
As the curtains fell on this dazzling evening, one message echoed loud and clear: Miss World is not just a beauty pageant—it’s a global platform for change.
With her heartfelt words and inspiring presence, Opal Suchata Chuangsri didn't just win a crown—she won hearts across the globe. Her reign as Miss World 2025 promises to be one of empowerment, compassion, and transformation.
From showcasing Telangana's vibrant culture to redefining global beauty standards, this year’s Miss World was a celebration of purpose in every sense of the word.
