Bhubaneswar: Dr Swayam Prava Baral, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Campus-2 at Phulnakhara, has been crowned Mrs Universe Global 2025 at the prestigious Mrs Universe Official Pageant held at Manila in Philippines, recently.
Alongside the coveted crown, Dr Baral also won the ‘Best in Forum’ title for her powerful advocacy on mental health and human rights, a cause which has now earned her global recognition as a human rights ambassador.
Representing India on the world stage, Dr Baral stood out for her eloquence, intellect and compassion, presenting the country’s rich cultural heritage with grace and conviction. Her speech at the human rights forum which focused on ‘Mental Health as a Fundamental Human Right’—received a standing ovation and was hailed as one of the most compelling presentations made at the event.
“This crown belongs to every woman who has ever been told she is too much or not enough. Mental health is not a privilege—it’s a right. My mission is to ensure that every voice in pain finds dignity, access and hope,” she said after being crowned Mrs Universe Global.
Dr Baral called on Prof Manojranjan Nayak, Founder President of Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University which runs IMS and SUM Hospital, Campus-2 on Thursday. While congratulating her on her achievement, Nayak wished her more success in future. Prof (Dr) Rajesh Kumar Lenka, Medical Superintendent of IMS and SUM Hospital, Campus-2, was also present.
A psychiatrist, author and WHO Fides Influencer, Baral is also founder of Swayam Mind Clinic and Wellness Centre in Bhubaneswar.
She has been a prominent advocate for emotional wellness, women’s empowerment and gender equality. Her bestselling book ’30 Days to a Healthy Mind’ and her initiatives such as ‘The Confident Me Challenge’ and ‘The Ambitious Woman Project’ have influenced many.
From treating patients to representing India on the global stage, Dr. Baral’s journey exemplifies resilience and purpose. Earlier, she had served as Senior Resident and Assistant Professor at the Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi, where her experience with women facing trauma and mental illness shaped her lifelong commitment to human rights.
With her new role as Global Human Rights Ambassador, Dr. Baral aims to launch international collaborations focusing on mental health literacy, de-stigmatization, human rights and world peace. “This is not the end of my journey—it’s the beginning of a global movement for compassionate mental health,” she said.
