Pune’s Kashish Methwani Creates History: From Miss India International to Army Officer
Pune’s Kashish Méthwani Creates History: From Miss India International to Army Officer
Pune’s Kashish Methwani has scripted history by becoming the first Miss India titleholder to be commissioned as an officer in the Indian Army. The former Miss International India 2023 has traded the glamour of the stage for the grit of the olive green uniform, marking a rare and inspiring journey.
Born and raised in Pune, Kashish grew up in an environment steeped in discipline and patriotism. Her early exposure to the National Cadet Corps (NCC) became a turning point, where she excelled in training and was awarded the prestigious Best Cadet of India title at the Republic Day Camp in New Delhi. She was personally felicitated by the Prime Minister, an experience she describes as life-changing.
While Kashish rose to prominence in the world of modeling and pageantry—winning Glamanand Supermodel India 2022 and later Miss International India 2023—her calling lay elsewhere. She balanced her achievements in the spotlight with strong academic credentials, completing her thesis at the Indian Institute of Science and even receiving an offer to pursue a PhD in neuroscience at Harvard. Choosing service over academia, she cleared the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination in 2024 with an All India Rank of 2 and joined the Officers Training Academy in Chennai.
Her decision to swap pageant crowns for a soldier’s cap was influenced by her deep sense of purpose and exposure to stories of courage, including those from the Kargil War. For Kashish, the Army was not just a career, but a calling to serve the nation.
Speaking about her journey, she has often emphasized that true beauty lies in courage and real inspiration comes through action. From the stage to the parade ground, her story reflects both resilience and commitment.
With her commissioning, Kashish Méthwani stands as a symbol of inspiration for young Indians—showing that one can embody grace and strength, glamour and grit, all while serving the nation.
