Krystyna Pyszkova wins title; Lebanon’s Yasmina Zaytoun is first runner-up

Krystyna Pyszková from the Czech Republic was crowned Miss World 2024 at the Jio World Convention Center in Mumbai on March 9. Competing against 111 other contestants from across the world, Pyszkova emerged victorious at the beauty pageant that was held in India after 28 years. Here are the key highlights in pics. (Image: Reuters)

Pyszková was crowned Miss World at a dazzling event held in Mumbai, while Lebanon’s Yasmina Zaytoun secured the first runner-up position. (Image: Reuters)

Following the crown handover from Poland’s Karoline Bielawska, Pyszková greeted and embraced fellow contestants. Expressing her joy, Pyszková stated, “Becoming Miss World fulfills a lifelong dream. I feel deeply privileged to represent my nation and promote ‘beauty with a purpose’ globally.” (Image: Reuters)

The competition narrowed down to the top 12, then the top eight, where the contestants engaged in a Q&A session on topics discussed at the recent G20 Summit. Pyszková, a 23-year-old law student and model, highlighted the importance of addressing issues related to women’s health care, particularly breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation.

The pageant showcased India’s vibrant culture, traditions, arts, crafts, and textiles to a global audience, with participants adorned in elaborate outfits dancing to Bollywood tunes.

Although India’s Sini Shetty reached the final eight, she didn’t clinch the title. Notably, six Indian women, including Reita Faria, Aishwarya Rai, Diana Hayden, Yukta Mookhey, Priyanka Chopra, and Manushi Chillar, have won the Miss World title previously. (Image: Reuters)

The 71st Miss World pageant was co-hosted by Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar and Miss World 2013 Megan Young from the Philippines. During the preliminary rounds of the pageant, participants showcased their skills in fitness, beauty, talent, and public speaking. Some earned “fast track” spots in the top 40, announced at the beginning of the event. (Image: Reuters)