The 72nd Miss World pageant officially kicked off with a spectacular inauguration ceremony at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad. Amid the grand celebration, it was Miss India World 2023, Nandini Gupta, who truly stole the spotlight. As the host announced “India," all eyes turned to Nandini, whose exquisite traditional attire immediately drew admiration and sparked curiosity across the globe.

Representing India on the international stage, Nandini wore a handwoven ensemble by award-winning textile and fashion designer Gaurang Shah. The outfit—an artistic confluence of heritage and craftsmanship—was a tribute to India’s rich cultural legacy, showcasing a unique fusion of Jamdani weaves from both Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.

A Tale of Two States Told Through Textiles

Gaurang Shah’s creation was no ordinary costume—it was a textile story woven with pride. The ensemble featured a jamdani jugalbandi (fusion) of two regional crafts, symbolising unity in India’s diverse traditions. Speaking to The New Indian Express, Gaurang revealed:

“The base fabric is handwoven using charkha-spun khadi yarn, intricately interlaced with gold zari Jamdani in a leharia (wave) pattern. The highlight of the outfit is the exquisitely detailed border and palla, featuring the traditional Bangdi Mor motif — four peacocks dancing inside a bangle. Set against an ivory backdrop, the gold zari offers a quiet shimmer, radiating elegance and regality."

The Bangdi Mor, a symbolic design rooted in Indian folk artistry, added depth and narrative to the look, going beyond fashion to echo cultural storytelling.

A Textile Three Years in the Making

The ensemble took three years to come to life. A team of eight master weavers from Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra worked painstakingly to create the fabric. When Nandini’s team reached out for a design that would represent India at Miss World, Gaurang immediately envisioned her in this masterpiece—one that speaks of timeless Indian artistry and dignity on a global stage.

Nandini Gupta: A Beacon of Grace, Intelligence, and Purpose

Born in September 2003 in Kota, Rajasthan, Nandini Gupta has always aspired to make a meaningful impact. After completing her schooling at St. Paul’s Senior Secondary School in Kota, she pursued a degree in Business Management from Lala Lajpat Rai College, Mumbai. She cites the late industrialist Ratan Tata as her role model, admiring his leadership and philanthropic ethos.

Her rise began with her winning the Femina Miss India 2023 crown, impressing judges with her intelligence, confidence, and social commitment. Now, she is one of 110 global contestants competing for the Miss World 2025 crown.

At the opening ceremony, Nandini proudly represented India, draped in heritage and holding the national fla, —making a strong statement about Indian identity, craftsmanship, and grace on the world stage.

Nandini Gupta’s presence at Miss World 2025 is more than just a representation of beauty—it’s a celebration of India’s cultural soul. Through Gaurang Shah’s intricate creation, she has elevated traditional Indian textiles to a global platformhonouringng the legacy of artisans and the stories woven into every thread.