On March 9, Krystyna Piszkova from the Czech Republic was crowned Miss World 2024 at the Geo World Convention Center in Mumbai. She competed against 111 other contestants from all over the world, and Pishkova won the first beauty pageant held in India in 28 years. Here are some photos of the main highlights. (Image: Reuters)
Pishkova was crowned Miss World at the prestigious event in Mumbai, while Lebanon's Yasmina Zaitoun secured her first runner-up spot. (Image: Reuters)
After taking over the crown from Poland's Karoline Bielawska, Piszkova greeted and hugged the contestants. Ms Pišková expressed her joy, saying: “Becoming Miss World has fulfilled a lifelong dream. I am very honored to represent my country and spread 'Beauty with a Purpose' to the world.'' ” she said. (Image: Reuters)
The competition was narrowed down to the top 12 and then the top 8, with the contestants having a Q&A session on topics discussed at the recent G20 summit. Piskova, a 23-year-old law student and model, stressed the importance of addressing issues related to women's health care, especially breaking down the stigma surrounding menstruation.
The pageant featured participants in elaborate costumes dancing to Bollywood songs, showcasing India's vibrant culture, traditions, arts, crafts and textiles to a global audience.
India's Sini Shetty made it to the final eight but could not win the title. Notably, six Indian women have been crowned Miss so far, including Reita Faria, Aishwarya Rai, Diana Hayden, Yukta Mukhei, Priyanka Chopra and Manushi Chhillar. He has won a world title. (Image: Reuters)
The 71st Miss World pageant was co-hosted by Bollywood director Karan Johar and 2013 Miss World from the Philippines, Megan Young. During the contest's preliminaries, participants showcased their fitness, beauty, talent, public speaking, and other skills. Some even earned a “Fast Track” spot in the top 40 announced at the beginning of the event. (Image: Reuters)