In a powerful statement against age stereotypes and societal limitations, Dr. Alice Mathew, a 71-year-old retired professor originally from Kerala, has been crowned “Mrs. India 2025 (Super Classic)” at a national beauty pageant held in Jaipur. Her victory has resonated far beyond the stage, inspiring conversations across India about lifelong ambition, women’s empowerment, and redefining success at every age.
The prestigious Mrs. India 2025 competition took place from December 18 to 21 at the regal Jai Bagh Palace in Jaipur, bringing together women from across the country to celebrate confidence, purpose, and individuality. Dr. Mathew’s triumph in the “Super Classic” category—reserved for women above 60—has been widely hailed as a milestone moment in Indian pageantry.
A pageant that celebrates purpose beyond age
Organised by Mrs. India.net, the four-day event featured nearly 40 contestants competing across multiple rounds, including talent showcases, personal interviews, and evening wear presentations. Unlike conventional beauty contests, the platform emphasises life experience, leadership, and social impact alongside grace and presentation.
“Our platform is dedicated to showcasing the beauty, strength, and stories of married women, regardless of age, size, or background,” said Deepali Phadnis, founder and director of Mrs. India.net. “Dr. Alice Mathew’s win is a powerful reminder that women do not have an expiry date on dreams. Her presence on stage embodied confidence, wisdom, and inspiration.”
The “Super Classic” category, organisers say, was designed specifically to honour women who continue to grow, contribute, and inspire well into their later years.
From Kerala to the US—and back with a mission
Dr. Alice Mathew hails from Kottayam, Kerala, and spent several decades in the United States pursuing an accomplished academic career. She retired as a professor from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where she was known not only for her academic contributions but also for mentoring students from diverse backgrounds.
After retirement, Dr. Mathew returned to Kerala and now resides with her husband at St. Matthews Home in Kallara, near Kottayam. Rather than slowing down, she reinvented herself as a motivational speaker and digital content creator, using platforms such as YouTube to encourage older women to embrace active, joyful, and purpose-driven lives.
“Winning Mrs. India 2025 is not just a personal triumph,” Dr. Mathew said after receiving the crown. “I want every woman—especially those who feel their best years are behind them—to know that new beginnings are always possible. Age is just a number; what truly matters is our spirit, confidence, and determination.”
Challenging stereotypes, inspiring generations
Dr. Mathew’s win has struck a chord in a society where beauty and achievement are often narrowly associated with youth. Her poised stage presence, articulate responses, and calm confidence impressed both judges and audiences, prompting widespread admiration.
“Dr. Mathew’s journey challenged our assumptions in the most beautiful way,” said Phadnis. “She reminded everyone that ambition does not fade with age—it matures.”
Social media platforms were flooded with congratulatory messages, with many users calling her a role model for women across generations. Women’s groups in Kerala described her achievement as a landmark moment for lifelong learning and self-expression, while fellow contestants praised her humility and perseverance throughout the competition.
The evolving face of Indian pageantry
Founded over a decade ago, Mrs. India.net has steadily expanded its vision, moving away from traditional pageant norms toward more inclusive representations of womanhood. By introducing categories for different age groups and life stages, the platform reflects a broader cultural shift in India—one that values experience, resilience, and contribution alongside appearance.
Experts say Dr. Mathew’s victory underscores this transformation. “Pageants like Mrs. India are no longer about fitting into a mould,” said a senior organiser. “They are about breaking it.”
A message that goes beyond the crown
For Dr. Alice Mathew, the crown represents responsibility as much as recognition. She says she hopes her story will encourage women to step beyond fear, self-doubt, and societal expectations.
“Every phase of life has its own beauty,” she said. “If my journey encourages even one woman to believe in herself again, then this title has served its true purpose.”
As her story continues to inspire audiences nationwide, Dr. Mathew’s achievement stands as a reminder that growth, confidence, and contribution have no age limit—and that it is never too late to shine.
