Kashish Methwani, crowned Miss International India 2023, has taken an unconventional path: stepping away from pageants and glamour to join the Indian Army as a commissioned officer. Her decision comes after securing All India Rank 2 in the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination.
Academic Brilliance, Military Calling
Methwani holds a master’s degree in biotechnology from Savitribai Phule Pune University and conducted neuroscience research at the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. Though offered a Ph.D. position at Harvard University, she declined it, choosing instead to train at the Officers’ Training Academy in Chennai—where she excelled in drills, shooting competitions, and leadership roles before commissioning into the Army’s Air Defence Regiment.
Influences and Family Background
Raised in Pune, Methwani grew up in a family rooted in education and service. Her father, a scientist with the Defence Ministry, and her mother, a teacher at an Army Public School, encouraged her pursuit of academics, sports, and the arts. She trained in Bharatanatyam, tabla, and pistol shooting, while also being active in the National Cadet Corps, which she later described as the turning point that drew her toward a military career.
Beyond Glamour, Toward Purpose
While pageantry brought her national attention and opportunities in modelling and entertainment, Methwani says she never saw it as a permanent profession. Instead, she views her commission as a step toward purposeful service. Alongside her military career, she continues to support community initiatives through her NGO, Critical Cause, focusing on education and health awareness.
A Redefinition of Success
For Methwani, the transition from stage to service underscores a larger narrative about young Indians redefining ambition and public service. “Beauty pageants celebrated a part of me,” she said in an earlier interview, “but the uniform reflects who I truly am.”