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Aims: To compare the palatal rugae pattern for possible differences between North Indian, South Indian and Chinese students of Manipal University, Manipal. To determine the rugae length, shape, direction, unification and number of the primary rugae. Materials and Method: The study sample consisted of 50 diagnostic study models of 25 males and 25 females within the age group of 15-23 years that were available in the department and were free from palatal defects. These cases were further segregated into 10 cases of each of North Indian, South Indian and Chinese groups and their dental casts were analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences in any parameter when compared between the sexes in the three groups. The difference in length among 3 groups was not statistically significant. The most common rugae shapes observed were wavy and curved. The North Indian group had a predominantly curved rugae shape while the South Indian and Chinese groups had wavy rugae. The rugae direction observed was mostly forward. Most of North Indians and South Indians had forward rugae and Chinese group had both types. Conclusion: The present study indicated that the rugae patterns of the Chinese group are significantly different from the two Indian groups and can hence be used for group identity.