underwent surgery at age 16 to remove a benign breast lump, sparking widespread attention and misinformation, according to Dr. P Raghu Ram of the Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation in Hyderabad. The lump, discovered years ago, was non-cancerous and successfully removed, with no evidence of breast cancer, contrary to some erroneous media reports.
While she stopped short of naming individuals, her words suggested that the atmosphere behind the scenes was far from the glamorous image projected onstage. Speculation is rife that certain participants or officials may have behaved inappropriately, contributing to her emotional discomfort.
A childhood dream fueled Nandini’s aspirations. Inspired by Priyanka Chopra at age 10, she cultivated her passion through local modeling contests, including a campaign for Orra Jewellery. In 2023, she won the Miss Rajasthan title and secured a spot in the prestigious Femina Miss India pageant. On April 15, 2023, she triumphed over 29 contestants to claim the national crown, proving that persistence pays off.
The 72nd Miss World pageant, hosted in India for the second year running, united 108 contestants from around the world in a three-week journey celebrating culture, talent, and meaningful beauty. Co-hosted by former Miss World 2016 Stephanie Del Valle and Indian host Sachiin Kumbhar, the event sparkled with performances by Bollywood stars Jacqueline Fernandez and Ishaan Khatter, infusing the night with star-studded allure.
Nandini Gupta’s, Miss India is among the top 40 contentants qualified for the final round for the crown. Who ever is the winner, it will earn her a grand prize of $1 million (approximately ₹8.5 crore), sponsored by the Miss World Organization and its partners, along with exclusive gifts and honors from the Telangana government.
Magee, in an exclusive interview with The Sun, claimed contestants were subjected to superficial treatment, forced to wear makeup constantly, and required to wear ball gowns even during meals. She further alleged that participants were asked to socialize with wealthy male sponsors, describing the experience as exploitative and outdated. “I went there to make a difference, but we had to sit like performing monkeys,” she said, expressing moral conflict with the pageant’s practices.
The Miss World Organisation confirmed Magee’s withdrawal, and Charlotte Grant, the Miss England runner-up, swiftly arrived in Hyderabad to take her place, ensuring England’s continued representation. The organization has not publicly responded to Magee’s allegations, but her departure has ignited discussions on social media, with some praising her courage and others questioning the pageant’s practices.
The opening ceremony captivated attendees with vibrant performances of Telangana’s folk and tribal dances, reflecting the state’s rich cultural tapestry. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy inaugurated the event, emphasizing Telangana’s pride in hosting the pageant and its potential to boost tourism.
Their arrival has heightened anticipation for the pageant, which promises to be a spectacular celebration of beauty, talent, and purpose. On May 10, Miss World Chairperson Julia Morley will meet with government officials to review preparations and finalize details for the opening ceremony, set to take place at the iconic Gachibowli Indoor Stadium.
According to an official notice from the Cyberabad Commissioner of Police, the prohibition will be enforced within a 5-kilometre radius of the event site. The restriction will remain in effect from May 4 to June 2 as part of security measures designed to ensure the safety of international delegates, dignitaries, contestants, and attendees.
