Assam’s Priyama Barbara Crowned Mrs. India Role Model 2025

Bengaluru, Oct 18: Assam’s Priyama Barbara has brought immense pride to the state after being crowned Mrs. India Role Model 2025 at the national pageant held at Bangalore’s Palace Grounds. The grand event, organised by the renowned Queen Maker Nandini Nagaraj, celebrated women of strength, elegance, and purpose.

A daughter of Guwahati and daughter-in-law of Jorhat, Priyama impressed the judges with her grace, confidence, and clarity of vision. Her Bihu performance dedicated to Zubeen Garg during the talent round became one of the most talked-about highlights of the evening, earning her a standing ovation from the audience. She will now represent India and Assam on the international pageant stage next year, carrying forward her mission of compassion and animal welfare.

In an exclusive conversation with Guwahati Times, Priyama reflected on her journey and the emotions behind her victory.

Describing the moment she was crowned, Priyama said it felt “absolutely surreal”, adding that the crown is not just a symbol of success but a reminder that it is never too late to rediscover one’s dreams and redefine one’s purpose.

Speaking about her journey to the finale, she said it was intense, emotional, and deeply rewarding. “Every stage, from grooming sessions to the final walk, taught me confidence, patience, and self-belief,” she recalled, adding that standing on that stage at Bangalore Palace Grounds was a moment she would cherish forever.

When asked what inspired her to participate in Mrs. India Role Model 2025, she said she wanted to reignite a dream she had once set aside. “I wanted to prove that women can begin again at any stage of life,” she explained, “and I also wanted to use this platform to spread compassion, to be a voice for the voiceless, especially for street animals who deserve love and respect.”

Representing Assam on the national platform was an emotional experience for her. “It was a moment of pure pride,” she said, “being a daughter of Guwahati and daughter-in-law of Jorhat, I carried Assam in my heart. My Bihu performance was my tribute to our culture and to Zubeen da, it felt like representing every proud Assamese soul on that stage.”

Speaking about challenges along the way, Priyama said balancing daily responsibilities while preparing for the competition was not easy. “There were long days and moments of self-doubt,” she admitted, “but my husband’s unwavering support kept me strong and focused throughout.”

She further shared that preparation for the competition meant more than physical grooming. “It was about balancing fitness, mindset, and self-confidence,” she said, “true beauty comes from within, and my goal was to walk that stage with authenticity and heart.”

Recalling one of her most emotional moments, she said, “When my name was announced as the winner, I couldn’t stop my tears. It was years of emotion, effort, and faith coming full circle. Another unforgettable moment was when the audience requested an encore after my Bihu performance, that applause still echoes in my heart.”

When asked about her biggest support system, she smiled and said, “My husband, without a doubt. His faith in me never wavered, he has been my rock, my cheerleader, and my calm through every storm.”

Sharing her message for women who dream of achieving something similar, she said, “Believe that your dreams are valid, no matter where life takes you. Start again, even if it’s from zero, and always lead with kindness, because strength and compassion together make a woman truly powerful.”

Speaking about her future plans as Mrs. India Role Model 2025, she said she hopes to continue her work for animal welfare. “I want to use this platform to promote compassion towards street animals, to educate people about adoption and responsible care. Being their voice is close to my heart, and I will continue to create awareness and empathy for them,” she said.

Highlighting how pageants like these empower women, she added, “They celebrate substance over appearance. These platforms give women a voice, visibility, and the confidence to stand for causes they believe in, that is what empowerment truly means.”

Concluding her conversation, Priyama expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Assam. “This crown belongs to all of Assam,” she said, “your love, blessings, and pride have carried me through. I will continue to represent our culture and values and spread the message of compassion and humanity for both people and animals alike.”

The Mrs. India Role Model pageant, conceptualised by Nandini Nagaraj, is known for recognising women who redefine beauty with purpose. Through her victory, Priyama Barbara has become an inspiration, proving that dreams do not fade with time, and that grace, conviction, and compassion together can make any woman shine on the world stage.