Life can change in a moment. Sometimes, it takes just one unexpected turn to start a completely new journey. That’s exactly what happened with Bishan Madappa, the man who made history by becoming the first-ever Mr. India Universe on October 13, 2025, in Jaipur. What makes his story special is that he never planned to enter the world of fashion - destiny simply found him when he was walking outside his office one afternoon in Bengaluru. Born in Kodagu, Karnataka, Bishan was always interested in sports. In his early years, he played national-level hockey but a serious injury changed his path. Later, while working in a corporate job in Bengaluru, life surprised him again. One day, during his lunch break, someone noticed him walking outside his office and encouraged him to try modelling. That one small moment turned into something big - a completely new career.
Bishan started doing photoshoots, fashion events and runway shows. His charm and discipline helped him grow quickly in the modelling world. With each show, he became more confident. He eventually went on to win a prestigious modelling competition in 2023 in Bengaluru, a significant milestone in his journey and became a well-known face in Karnataka. In 2025, his life took yet another turn when he got selected as a national finalist of Mr. India Universe 2025 competition. It was the first time in Indian history that Mr. India Universe competition was being organized, after the Miss Universe franchise was acquired by the Glamanand Group. Initially hesitant to join the competition, Bishan thought, it would be better, if he came next year with better preparations. However, his family convinced him to try the same year.
On October 5, he travelled to Jaipur to compete for the title of Mr. India Universe, even before his arrival, he had become one of the crowd favorite candidates for the title. With his charming face, beautiful brown eyes and a towering 6’2” tall physique, he caught attention of every individual, be it online or offline. Gradually, he started performing well in all the segments of the competitions, be it photoshoots or practice sessions, and his very professional and disciplined demeanour was appreciated by everyone.
On October 13, at the Zee Studios, in Jaipur, during the national finals of the Mr. India Universe competition, he won 3 special awards (including Top Model, Best Runway Model and Best in Formal Wear), a victory that was anticipated by many. After the final act of the competition, Bishan Madappa was announced the winner of the very first Mr. India Universe competition. The young boy from Coorg, who once aspired to be a sportsperson, went on to write his name in the pages of history as the first Mr. India Universe. Next year, he will be seen representing India at the Mister Universe competition.
Image source: Glamanand Group.
Photography by VJ Suraj
Outfit by Nitin Singh
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