Kashish Mittal IAS officer started life as a brilliant academic achiever, securing All India Rank 6 in JEE and later cracking UPSC with All India Rank 58 to join the IAS. From the first sentence, this narrative frames the magnitude of his transitions—from IIT Delhi graduate to top civil servant to classical singer.
Born in Jalandhar in 1989, Mittal grew up in a household where discipline and art coexisted. His early music training began at age eight, and by eleven he performed at the Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan in Punjab. Even during IIT Delhi and IAS years, he continued his devotion to the Agra Gharana’s Khayal gayaki.
Mittal’s IIT Delhi credentials and JEE rank 6 are widely cited, alongside his UPSC rank 58 that earned him entry into the IAS at just 21. These credentials became a foundation that enabled his eventual artistic leap.
Despite distinguished roles such as Additional Deputy Commissioner Chandigarh and working at NITI Aayog, he resigned from the IAS in 2019. Reports suggested dissatisfaction around his transfer to Arunachal Pradesh, but Mittal emphasised that classical music demanded respect and full focus.
One of his impromptu performances — a soulful rendition of Unke Andaz-e-Karam — went viral, capturing the internet’s attention for its raw emotion and simplicity.
Today, he co‑founded Disha AI in 2025 after a stint at Microsoft as a Principal Research Program Manager. While his tech‑world transition has earned headlines, it’s his music that continues to define him.
His recent performances and digital presence reflect a unique journey—one that blends discipline, purpose, and soulful expression. Kashish Mittal is not just an ex-IAS officer or IITian. He’s now a voice deeply rooted in Indian classical heritage.
If inspiring career shifts fascinate you, don’t miss the story of Shagufta Rafique — from bar dancer to Bollywood filmmaker, a journey that’s just as powerful and unexpected.
❓ FAQs
Who is Kashish Mittal IAS officer?
Kashish Mittal is a former IAS officer and IIT Delhi graduate who left civil services to pursue Hindustani classical music full-time.
What was Kashish Mittal’s IIT rank?
He secured All India Rank 6 in the IIT JEE examination and pursued Computer Science at IIT Delhi.
What was Kashish Mittal’s UPSC rank?
He achieved All India Rank 58 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination and joined the IAS at age 21.
What kind of songs does Kashish Mittal sing?
He performs Hindustani classical music, specifically Khayal gayaki from the Agra Gharana. His viral renditions often include Sufi and semi-classical compositions.
Who is Kashish Mittal’s wife?
Kashish Mittal is married to Arpita Gupta. They tied the knot in February 2020, though she maintains a private, media-free life.
