They say life is shaped by perspective, by how we choose to respond when the unexpected arrives. For Princess Padmaja Kumari of Mewar, that perspective was formed early. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of five, nearly four decades ago, she grew up in a time when awareness around the condition was limited and stigma was widespread. In an exclusive interview with Moneycontrol, she shares how she has refused to let that diagnosis define her story.
“The credit goes to my mother,” she says. “She never introduced it to me as a problem. There was no fear surrounding it. I had to take insulin, yes. But other than that, my childhood was completely normal.” That absence of fear became the foundation of her resilience. There were no hushed conversations about fragility, no sense of deprivation, only empowerment and routine.
Born into the historic legacy of Mewar, she understands that heritage carries responsibility. But rather than feeling caught between tradition and modernity, she sees them as deeply aligned. “When I realised early on that I wasn’t just born close to tradition but that I am an extension of it, I asked myself, how can I use that to put an aspirational, inspiring message out there?” she reflects. “Whatever you do, do it with conviction. Make sure you are aligned with it. To say something and not follow through, there’s nothing worse than that.”
Living with Type 1 diabetes requires vigilance, but she challenges the common myths surrounding it. “There’s a big misconception that we can’t eat sugar.
That’s not true,” she says candidly. “I do have desserts. I don’t avoid food. I just listen to my body.” For her, wellness is not about restriction; it is about awareness. “Those of us living with Type 1 learn very fast what makes us feel good and what doesn’t. It’s about being conscious.”
Her daily routine reflects that philosophy. Pilates anchors her strength training, while long daily walks, often over an hour, are woven into work calls and conversations. “I combine it with something else, so it doesn’t feel like a chore,” she explains. “We’re short of time, so it’s about thinking innovatively.” She also surfs with her children when by the ocean and snowshoes through Boston winters. “Even though I don’t ski, I found a snow activity,” she says with a laugh, underscoring her belief in adaptation rather than limitation.
She also surfs with her children when by the ocean (Pictures: Princess Padmaja Kumari of Mewar)
Equally important, she emphasises, is mental health. “Mental health is an important part of Type 1 diabetes management,” she says. Monitoring blood sugar levels is constant; emotional balance must be, too. “When you’re feeling mentally and emotionally strong, you are your best version. And only you know what that feeling is for you.” Speaking openly about challenges, she believes, reduces stigma and strengthens communities.
Her advocacy work reflects a heightened sense of duty. “If I’m not doing something to advocate for access to insulin or let people know this is a condition that can be managed, I feel a very heightened sense of responsibility,” she admits. Through the Friends of Mewar Foundation and other initiatives, she supports health causes ranging from cataract surgeries to broader awareness campaigns. But Type 1 remains deeply personal. “My body does not produce insulin. I need it to live. There’s no way around it.”
On March 16 in Washington, D.C., she will receive recognition from the American government for her advocacy work in Type 1 diabetes, an honor she shares with visible pride. “I say this for two reasons,” she tells. “One, because I’m happy about it. And second, because I want people to know that the whole world is their oyster.”Despite the challenges, she adds, one must not allow oneself to deter from their goals. “You can if you think you can.”
As Women’s Day approaches, her message broadens. “Women should know that there is no excuse or reason good enough that holds you back from taking care of your health.” She says. "If we, as women, don’t make ourselves a priority, what are we teaching our children?” she asks. Raising two daughters, she views self-care not as indulgence but as responsibility. “Let’s make ourselves a priority, not just for us, but for the community and the nation.”
Lastly, Princess Padmaja Kumari’s story is not defined by diagnosis or dynasty alone. It is defined by alignment, between mind and body, privilege and purpose, heritage and humanity. And above all, by a perspective that transforms challenge into service.
1. Can people with Type 1 diabetes eat sugar?
Yes, people with Type 1 diabetes can eat sugar. The key is to listen to your body and manage your diet with awareness, not restriction.
2. What is important for managing Type 1 diabetes?
Vigilance, awareness, and routine are crucial. It's about understanding what makes you feel good and maintaining both physical and mental health.
3. Can people with Type 1 diabetes lead a normal life?
Absolutely. With the right management and a positive perspective, individuals with Type 1 diabetes can lead normal, active lives.
4. How important is physical activity for those with Type 1 diabetes?
Physical activity is very important. It helps in managing blood sugar levels and overall well-being. Combining activities with daily routines can make them enjoyable and less of a chore.
5. What role does mental health play in managing Type 1 diabetes?
Mental health is a significant part of managing Type 1 diabetes. Emotional balance is essential to being your best version and managing the condition effectively.
6. How can advocacy help the diabetes community?
Advocacy raises awareness, reduces stigma, and can lead to better access to resources like insulin. It also empowers the community by highlighting manageable aspects of the condition.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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