Purnima Padmasna: Living Every Dream in a Single Lifetime
“If you are alive, believe in life’s victory; if heaven exists, bring it down to earth.”
Chief Manager at Bank of Maharashtra, celebrated model, poet, and motivational speaker — Purnima Padmasna has proved that life does not have to fit into one mold. From becoming a respected banking professional to earning the second runner-up crown at Mrs. India One in a Million 2022, she has pursued every dream with unshakable determination.
”She says, quoting her favorite line, a reflection of her belief in living fully and fearlessly.
Inspired by a Life Lived in Service
When asked about her role model, Purnima speaks of her maternal grandmother with deep admiration. A housewife, teacher, social worker, and freedom fighter at just 14 years old, her grandmother embodied courage and resilience long before such words became buzzworthy. “She performed many roles in one life and left a legacy that still inspires our entire village,” Purnima recalls.
That spirit of service and strength continues to guide Purnima, whether she’s leading teams at the Bank of Maharashtra or walking the runway for renowned designers like Anjalee & Arjun Kapoor and Anupama Dayal.
Defining Moments: From Humiliation to Honor
Purnima’s journey has not been without struggle. After graduating with distinction in Biochemistry, she dreamed of becoming a scientist. But social expectations and financial constraints halted her education, and marriage proposals were overshadowed by high dowry demands.
One incident became a turning point. A prospective groom’s family humiliated her father — simply because he could not meet their demands. “I told my father, ‘Give me one year. I will become a Probationary Officer myself so that no one ever disrespects you again.’”
Without coaching classes, she prepared on her own, studying day and night. On March 10, 2008, she achieved what she had promised, securing a position as Probationary Officer in Bank of Maharashtra. Today, with 17 years of service, she proudly holds the post of Chief Manager — a success story that commands respect not only from her family but from colleagues across the bank.
Achievements Beyond Titles and Crowns
Purnima considers her greatest achievements deeply personal. “The day I became a mother — first in 2011 and again in 2014 — was the most extraordinary feeling. Nothing compares to creating life itself.”
On the professional front, being crowned second runner-up at Mrs. India One in a Million 2022 was another milestone. Along with the main title, she won two special awards — Body Beautiful and Beautiful Skin. Combined with her long-standing recognition in creative writing, these honors reflect the many facets of her personality.
But she remains humble: “I have always believed that life gives only one chance to fulfill our dreams. I refuse to waste it.”
Challenges That Shaped Her Principles
Every barrier Purnima faced — from halted studies to societal pressures — has strengthened her core values: Honesty, Truth, and Hard Work with full devotion. These principles have shaped not only her career but her approach to everything from parenting to modeling.
She dismisses the idea of balancing multiple roles as an impossible burden. “When you have the desire to achieve something, even God comes down to help you. I plan my work, create a strategy, and everything falls into place. It never feels heavy.”
Motivation: A Single Life, A Single Chance
Purnima’s driving force is simple: We live only once. “Whatever we wish to do, we should do in this lifetime. There are no second chances.” This philosophy fuels her energy — whether she is leading a zonal banking team, walking the ramp as a showstopper, writing poetry late into the night, or mentoring young women.
Giving Back Through Action
Beyond her professional and personal milestones, Purnima devotes time to projects that uplift others. She is currently involved in initiatives to support education for blind children, a cause she feels deeply about. “I want to do something meaningful for those who are considered underprivileged or unable to compete on equal terms. Everyone deserves an opportunity to shine.”
Her future goals align with this vision — creating programs and support systems for individuals who have the potential to achieve but lack resources or guidance.
A Message for Young Women: Believe Completely
When asked what advice she would give to young women, Purnima’s answer is clear and unwavering:
“Believe yourself, believe your heart and mind, and do whatever they say — because we do not live twice.”
Her words are not mere encouragement; they are the principles by which she has lived, defying societal constraints and proving that persistence, faith, and courage can build a life of both purpose and passion.
Living With No Regrets
From walking prestigious ramps to leading in the corporate world, from motherhood to mentoring, Purnima Padmasna embodies the belief that every dream deserves a chance. Her story reminds us that challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones — and that no one should wait for permission to pursue what truly matters.
Her favorite quote sums up her philosophy:
“If you are alive, believe in life’s victory; if heaven exists, bring it down to earth.”
Purnima has done exactly that — creating her own heaven through courage, discipline, and relentless belief in herself.
