"In a world where most chase titles, Kashish Mittal chose truth — the truth of a sur, a raga, a calling that led him from the civil corridors of power to the timeless depth of Hindustani classical music."
A Heart Tuned to Hindustani Classical
The story of Kashish Mittal IAS officer reflects the importance of passion and heart to make one their own way. Born in Jalandhar in 1989 to IPS officer Jagdish Kumar and Sangeeta Mittal, Kashish Mittal biography begins with his early initiation into Hindustani Classical Music at the age of eight under Prof. Harvinder Singh, along with his younger brother Lavish. His journey in music saw its first milestone when he gave his maiden performance at the Harivallabh Sangeet Sammellan in Punjab at just eleven years of age — a sign that his success would not follow the predictable path society often imagines.
A brilliant student, Kashish Mittal IIT Delhi alumnus, completed his B.Tech in Computer Science from the prestigious institute. He cracked the challenging IIT-JEE with an impressive All-India Rank and later appeared in the UPSC Civil Services Examination. His relentless dedication earned him an extraordinary achievement — securing Kashish Mittal UPSC rank 58 in one of the toughest competitive exams in the country. At just 21, he joined the coveted Indian Administrative Service, becoming IAS officer, whose story continues to inspire countless aspirants across the nation.
Two Worlds, One Passion
Before stepping into IIT Delhi, Kashish Mittal had already cracked the Indian National Olympiads in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. He was the only student in India to achieve that rare feat and was awarded a Gold Medal in Physics Olympiad by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, Mumbai.
While others focused solely on placements and packages, Kashish Mittal classical singer continued his rigorous Riyaz — often balancing code with khayal. At an institution known for logic and linearity, he was following the bends and curves of raag aalaps, carrying forward the rich tradition of the Agra Gharana.
From Additional Deputy Commissioner in Chandigarh to Deputy Commissioner in Tawang, and later working in the Office of the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, Kashish Mittal made his mark as a diligent, effective administrator. Clearing the Civil Services Examination with UPSC rank 58, his journey stands as a rare confluence of administrative excellence and artistic devotion.
But even as he signed files and implemented policies, the music within him never stopped. It waited patiently in the background — growing stronger, deeper, and ready to resurface.
A Decision that leaves many stunned?
After nine years of serving the Indian government, Kashish made a decision that would leave many stunned — he resigned from the IAS to pursue his true what his heart says, “Hindustani Classical Music.”
For many, this may have seemed like an irrational risk. But for Kashish, this was alignment. It was a coming home.
Under the rigorous tutelage of Pandit Yashpaul ji of the Agra Gharana, Kashish underwent taleem in the true Guru-Shishya Parampara tradition. The Agra Gharana, known for its robust laykari, bol-bant, and powerful nom-tom alaps, became his sadhna and sanctuary. Kashish mastered the intricacies of vilambit khayals, taans, and taranas, weaving in depth, rhythm, and soul. Today, his renditions bear the unmistakable imprint of Agra Gharana—rich, powerful, yet intimate.
Learning the Agra Gharana
Kashish studied the fineries of the Agra Gharana under Pandit Yashpaul. His renditions, marked by a powerful and expressive singing voice along with a masterful command over sargams and taans, have taken India by storm.
Today, Kashish Mittal classical singer is an ‘A Grade’ artiste with All India Radio and Doordarshan, an established artiste on the list of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, and has carved a niche in the world of classical music.
His Khayal, Thumri, and Tarana singing, along with his soulful Sufi and folk music performances, go beyond technical mastery — they form a deep bond with the spiritual origins of the art. His concerts at Tansen Samaroh (Gwalior), Jashn-e-Rekhta (Delhi), Raag Amir Festival (Indore), Taj Mahotsav (Agra), and World Sahaja Yoga Festival (Ganpatipule) have left audiences spellbound.
He has received numerous accolades, including:
- Punjab State Award for Art & Culture by Hon’ble CM of Punjab (2007)
- Saraswati Samman by IIT Delhi (2010)
- Naad Shri Samman for contribution to Hindustani Classical Music (2018)
Even before these honours, Kashish held national scholarships from CBSE, CCRT, and NCERT, and was an NTSE scholar. Beyond music, he is also recognized as Disha AI founder, making him a rare blend of art and innovation. His viral singing videos have captured the imagination of youth, turning him into a symbol of career change inspiration stories. For many, his journey of leaving IAS for passion is a powerful reminder that true happiness lies in following one’s calling.
Indeed, his decision to change career continues to resonate with aspiring artists and professionals alike.
The Search Within!
Sometimes, no matter how much we achieve, there’s a quiet restlessness that lingers — a feeling that something deeper is waiting to be found. Titles, success, even prestige can feel hollow if they aren’t in harmony with who we truly are. Kashish Mittal’s journey is a BIGSTORY in every sense — a reminder that real peace begins when we stop chasing and start listening within. For Kashish, it was Hindustani classical music that called him home. For you, it might be something else. The moment you recognise your true calling… That's where your BIGSTORY begins.
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