Dr. Ria Ravindra Palwankar

• Thane

• A Brief about yourself and how you describe your own persona.

"Hello, I’m Dr.(Mrs) Ria Ravindra Palwankar, a 64-year-old, oral surgeon from Maharashtra with 38 years of enriching experience in medical education at Mumbai’s prestigious Sir J. J. Group of Hospitals. Beyond my profession, I’m a proud mother of two wonderful children and a devoted wife. My energy, enthusiasm, and ever-present smile reflect my belief in living fully in the present moment. I approach life with confidence, grace, and a dynamic drive to achieve anything I set my mind to. I’m unique because I’ve balanced 38 years of professional excellence with an unshakeable passion for life at 64. My resilience, ability to juggle career and family, and zest for new challenges make me an inspiring role model. I embody the grace, wisdom, and dynamic energy Mrs India Quine of a Substance stands for, proving that age is no limit to beauty or success."

• Your achievements that make you feel high

"I am an accomplished oral and maxillofacial surgeon with 38 years of teaching experience at Mumbai's prestigious Grant Government Medical College and Sir J. J. Group of Hospitals, mentoring countless medical professionals. I hold a second master's degree in the ancient language Pali, showcasing my love for knowledge. I have performed a unique world-record surgery, a milestone in my career. Recently, I was honoured with the title 'Mrs—Vivacious at the Taj Mrs. India Contest. I received the Outstanding Dentist of the Year award in 2013 and 2025. Jeevan Jyoti Award. These achievements inspire me to aim higher and stay passionate about making a difference."

• Define true beauty

True beauty goes beyond physical appearance; it reflects one’s inner qualities, character, and soul. It is seen in kindness, compassion, and the ability to uplift others. True beauty shines through confidence, resilience, and how a person carries themselves with grace and humility. It’s about having a pure heart, a positive mindset, and a radiant energy that inspires and touches lives. True beauty is timeless, as it stems from authenticity, self-love, and the ability to spread joy and warmth wherever one goes.

• What makes a complete, healthy and happy family for you?

A complete, healthy, and happy family is built on the foundation of love, trust, and mutual respect. It thrives on open communication, where every member feels heard and valued. Spending quality time together, supporting each other’s dreams, and celebrating achievements strengthens the bond. A healthy family prioritises physical and emotional well-being, encourages healthy habits, and creates a safe space for growth and self-expression. Happiness in a family comes from shared values, small joys, and the ability to face challenges as a team. Ultimately, it’s about unconditional love, understanding, and the willingness to nurture one another through life’s journey.

• What is your favourite Idea of Holidaying?

"My favourite idea for holidaying is spending quality time with my loved ones in a serene and picturesque destination, where we can unwind and reconnect with nature. I enjoy exploring new places, experiencing local cultures, and creating lasting memories. Whether it’s relaxing on a peaceful beach, trekking through lush mountains, or indulging in a wellness retreat, a perfect holiday for me rejuvenates the mind, body, and soul while strengthening family bonds."

• Why you are participating in Mrs India Queen of Substance?

"I am participating in the Mrs India Queen of Substance pageant because it is a platform that celebrates women who embody grace, strength, and wisdom. At 64, I want to inspire others by showing that age is not a barrier to pursuing dreams or achieving new milestones. This pageant aligns with my belief in living with confidence, purpose, and enthusiasm. It is an opportunity to share my journey, showcase my individuality, and contribute to a larger cause that empowers women. Through this platform, I aim to represent beauty with substance and encourage others to embrace their uniqueness and potential."

• What bothers you most about what is happening in the country today?

"What bothers me most about what is happening in the country today is the growing divide among people due to differences in opinions, beliefs, and ideologies. Instead of unity, we often see a lack of understanding and compassion. Additionally, issues like environmental degradation, unequal opportunities, and the pressure on mental health concern me deeply. I believe as citizens, we need to focus on building a more inclusive, sustainable, and empathetic society where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute to the nation’s progress."

• The Quote or saying that encourages you?

"The quote that inspires me the most is Buddha’s wisdom: atta deep bhava 'Be your own light.' It reminds me to take responsibility for my path, illuminate my life with self-belief and purpose, and inspire others through my journey. It perfectly aligns with my philosophy of living in the present and creating a meaningful future."

• What is true

"For me, true sportsmanship is not just about winning or losing but about displaying integrity, respect, and grace in every situation. It means celebrating the efforts of others, embracing challenges with a positive mindset, and continually striving to improve oneself while uplifting others. True sportsmanship reflects the strength of character that shines through even in the most competitive moments."

• If you were chosen as a Charity Ambassador what value addition would you make to our society and how ?

*"If I were selected as a Charity Ambassador, I would focus on promoting healthcare awareness and accessibility, especially for underprivileged communities. As an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with 38 years of experience, I have witnessed firsthand how access to timely medical care can transform lives. I would organize free dental and surgical health camps, educate people about preventive care, and advocate for policies supporting affordable healthcare. Additionally, I would emphasize women’s empowerment by mentoring women to build confidence and pursue their dreams. By leveraging my platform and experience, I aim to inspire others to create a society where compassion, education, and wellness are at the forefront."*