The prestigious Miss World beauty pageant is making headlines once again, but this time not just for its glamorous showcases of beauty and intellect. Organizers have revealed that they are contemplating the possibility of hosting the competition in the disputed Indian territory of Jammu and Kashmir, a move that has sparked discussions and raised eyebrows due to the region’s complex geopolitical situation.
The decision to potentially host the pageant in the region comes as part of a broader month-long series of events scheduled to take place across India. The Jammu and Kashmir region, which has long been a point of contention between India and Pakistan, is divided by the Line of Control, with both countries laying claim to its territory.
Historically, the area has seen military operations carried out by India. However, in recent times, there has been a push to promote tourism in the region. Over a million Indian citizens visited the area last year, lured by its breathtaking mountain landscapes and natural beauty.
The Chair of the Miss World Organization, Julia Morley, expressed optimism about the prospect of hosting events in the picturesque yet politically sensitive Kashmir region. Morley remarked, “This is a blessed place for tourism,” during her visit to Srinagar, the main city in the occupied territory.
While the idea of showcasing the region’s scenic beauty might sound appealing, the final decision on the venue for the contest’s grand finale has yet to be determined. Jamil Saidi, chairman of Indian event organization company PME Entertainment, clarified that the location for the finale has not been officially confirmed and will be announced at a later date. The official schedule of events across India also remains to be finalized.
The Miss World beauty pageant is not without its controversies. While it celebrates the beauty, intellect, and humanitarian efforts of women, it has faced criticism in the past for perpetuating the objectification of women and contributing to societal pressures surrounding appearance.
This potential move to hold a major international event in the Kashmir region is not the first of its kind. In May, India hosted a G20 tourism meeting in Srinagar, showcasing a bid to restore a sense of “normalcy and peace” after a period of upheaval following New Delhi’s revocation of the territory’s limited autonomy in 2019. Dissent has been met with legal consequences, media freedoms have been curtailed, and public protests have been restricted, leading critics to voice concerns about the state of civil liberties in the region.
Karolina Bielawska, the current titleholder of Miss World 2022, conveyed her enthusiasm for the opportunity to present the region’s magnificence on a global stage. The Polish model shared, “I am eagerly anticipating the chance to extend a warm welcome to 140 nations, along with my friends and family, and guide them through the captivating locales of India, including breathtaking spots like Kashmir, Delhi, and Mumbai… India boasts an array of stunning places.”
As discussions continue and plans take shape, the potential hosting of the Miss World beauty pageant in the Kashmir region serves as a reminder of the intersection of culture, politics, and global events.
