From crown to camouflage: Kashish Methwani’s inspiring journey from pageants to the Indian Army

Switching from the glamour of beauty pageants to the grit of the armed forces is almost unheard of. Yet, Kashish Methwani, crowned Miss International India 2023 and offered global opportunities, chose duty over spotlight. By cracking the CDS exam with All India Rank 2, she traded crowns for the olive green, and now serves as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army’s Air Defence Regiment.

More About Kashish Methwani

Born into a family deeply rooted in education and service, Kashish Methwani grew up balancing science and creativity. Her father, Dr. Gurmukh Das, a senior officer in the Ministry of Defence, and her mother, Shobha, an Army Public School teacher, instilled in her the values of discipline and learning. Kashish excelled academically, completing her master’s in Biotechnology at Savitribai Phule Pune University and pursuing neuroscience research at the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru.

A Multi-talented Personality

Far beyond academics, Kashish immersed herself in the arts and sports. A trained Bharatanatyam dancer and tabla player, she also competed in basketball and pistol shooting. During the pandemic, she founded an NGO, Critical Cause, to raise awareness on blood, plasma, and organ donation, showcasing her leadership and humanitarian vision.

The Glamour Phase: Miss International India 2023

In 2023, Kashish stepped into the limelight and won the coveted title of Miss International India. Offers from modeling agencies, acting platforms, and even a PhD opportunity at Harvard followed. Yet, beneath the glamour, her heart sought a greater calling.

The NCC Spark and Call to Duty

Kashish’s defining moment came through the National Cadet Corps (NCC). Representing her unit at the Republic Day Parade, she won the Best Cadet Trophy from the Prime Minister. That honor planted the seed of a deeper commitment - to serve the nation in uniform.

Cracking the CDS and Joining the Army

In 2024, Kashish secured All India Rank 2 in the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam. She underwent rigorous training at the Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai, and on September 6, 2025, was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Army Air Defence Regiment.

A Role Model for the Youth

Kashish Methwani’s journey proves that passion, perseverance, and purpose can coexist. From beauty crowns to the olive green uniform, she embodies a rare balance of grace and grit- an inspiration for countless young Indians to dream without boundaries.