From bangles to shehnai: Miss World contestants experience Hyderabad’s Old City charm

Hyderabad: The iconic Charminar turned into a vibrant cultural hub as 109 Miss World contestants from across the globe visited the historic monument during their stay in Hyderabad. The centuries-old structure, located in the heart of the Old City, left a lasting impression on the visitors, who admired its architecture and cultural significance.

The contestants arrived in tourist buses and were welcomed with a red carpet reception. Local artists greeted them with traditional Arabic Marfa music. Several contestants joined in the celebration, dancing to the rhythmic beats and engaging warmly with the local community.

A special photo shoot was held at Charminar, with contestants waving to onlookers and capturing the monument on their phones. The area buzzed with energy as locals and tourists gathered to witness the interaction. Later, the contestants took part in a heritage walk near Charminar, highlighting the city's rich cultural legacy.

The visit included a stop at the famous Choodi Bazaar (Lad Bazaar), where contestants explored shops selling bangles, pearl necklaces, and traditional decorative items. Many observed the intricate bangle-making process and praised the craftsmanship of local artisans, calling for wider recognition of their work.

In a gesture of goodwill, shopkeepers at Lad Bazaar refused payment for the items purchased by the contestants. They offered the goods as gifts and welcomed the visitors with rose flowers, requesting them to share Hyderabad’s charm and cultural richness in their home countries.

The cultural experience continued at Chowmohalla Palace, where the contestants were greeted with Hindustani shehnai music. Traditional dances performed by local women showcased the heritage of Hyderabad’s Old City.

The visit, part of the Miss World pageant activities, brought global attention to Hyderabad’s cultural heritage.