At just 24, Shubham Sharma has already lived multiple lives — a national-level footballer, an aspiring army officer, a certified fitness trainer, and now, India’s official delegate to the prestigious Mister Supranational 2025 in Poland. Hailing from Mumbai, the city of dreams, Shubham’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience, reinvention, and purpose. Crowned Mr. India on his very first attempt, he now stands poised to represent the country on an international stage, not only as a model but as a changemaker. Through his grassroots initiative Kickstart Dreams, he’s proving that real strength lies in lifting others as you rise — using the universal language of football to empower children from underserved communities. His project From the Ground Up provides kids with access to the sport and the equipment they need, helping them build confidence, discipline, and life skills.
Partnering with the NGO Sports Mentoring Infusion (SMI), Shubham works with children from red-light areas, juvenile homes, and marginalized communities. Together, they’re transforming football into a tool for identity, inclusion, and opportunity.
As he prepares to compete against 40+ nations on June 28th, Shubham is bringing more than style to the runway — he’s bringing heart, hope, and a powerful story from the ground up.
Excerpts from the interview
From the football field to the fashion ramp — tell us about your journey from being a national-level footballer to becoming Mr. India Supranational 2025.
Shubham Sharma: I used to be a professional footballer — this was back in 2021. I actually played at the national level twice. Football was a huge part of my life. But the transition into pageantry happened quite unexpectedly. One day, I received a message saying I had been scouted. They asked if I’d be interested in participating in Mr. India. I wasn’t really expecting it, but I saw it as an opportunity and decided to go for it. It was my first time stepping into this world — and I ended up winning! So yes, it’s been a surprising but amazing journey from sports to the stage.
You were once preparing for the Officer Training Academy, if I’m not wrong. How did that experience shape you, and how did you navigate the emotional shift after not making the final selection?
Shubham Sharma: Yes, that’s right! I was preparing for the OTA and trained really hard for about six months. I was completely focused — staying in my room, following a strict routine, giving it everything I had. When I didn’t make it to the final selection, I was definitely upset with myself. It was a tough moment emotionally. But even then, I didn’t lose my discipline or my faith in myself. That phase taught me a lot about resilience. My passion for fitness and health kept me grounded, and that’s what eventually led me to become a certified fitness coach. So, even though the OTA didn’t happen, fitness has always stayed with me — it’s been my constant.
Winning Mr. India on your very first attempt is no small feat. What do you think helped you stand out in the competition?
Shubham Sharma: Honestly, I’d say it’s my hair — as you can probably see, it’s kind of my USP! (laughs) But apart from that, what truly set me apart was my discipline.
Even though it was my first time entering such a pageant, I came in with a clear aim — that if I’m going for it, I have to give it my all and make it count. I poured all my hard work, focus, and discipline into the journey. And I guess all of that came together and helped me win. And today, I’m sitting right in front of you as Mr. India Supranational!
You’re also a fitness trainer, and trekking seems to be an important part of your personal life. What role does nature and solitude play in keeping you grounded?
Shubham Sharma: I’ve always felt a deep connection to nature — especially the mountains. I’m a mountain boy at heart. Whenever I visit Uttarakhand or my native place, I just pack my bag and go. No fixed destination — I just head into the hills. Being in nature gives me a kind of peace that nothing else does. The silence, the vastness, the fresh air — it really helps me stay grounded and connected to myself. Whether it’s trekking or just spending time alone in the mountains, it resets me. Nature has always been a big part of who I am.
Modelling is a demanding profession, both physically and mentally. What kind of preparation went into your transformation, especially for your runway debut?
Shubham Sharma: I’d say it all started with my debut — walking the ramp for the first time at Lakmé Fashion Week was a dream come true. I only began my modelling journey last year, and after winning Mr. India, I got the opportunity to walk at Lakmé. Physically, I had already been committed to fitness, so that discipline really helped. But mentally, it was a big shift — learning how to carry yourself, how to walk confidently, and present your personality on stage. It was all new, but I gave it my 100%. Honestly, walking that ramp for the first time felt surreal. It’s a moment I’ll always cherish.
Your community initiative, Kickstart Dreams, is deeply personal. Could you tell us what inspired you to start this project?
Shubham Sharma: Football is very close to my heart — it’s played a big role in shaping who I am today. That’s why Kickstart Dreams means so much to me. It’s an initiative I started to support underprivileged children who don’t have access to sports, especially football. We try to provide them with football gear and basic equipment so they can experience the joy of the game without worrying about resources. I also want to organize community football drives and local matches — just to give these kids a platform. And honestly, if even one child is able to chase their dream through this, it will all be worth it for me.
You also partnered with the sports mentoring initiative Infusion to support kids from red-light areas and shelters. How did this collaboration come about, and what has been the most touching moment for you so far?
Shubham Sharma: The most touching moment for me, ma’am, was when I met the parents of some of these kids. They don’t have much — very limited means — but their hearts are full of hope. They were genuinely happy, and they have such big dreams for their children. That really moved me. It made me realize how powerful even small efforts can be. That’s what pushes me to do more for them. Through Kickstart Dreams, I want to continue supporting these children, not just with football gear but by giving them a sense of possibility. This collaboration with Infusion felt like the right step to reach more kids and bring some light into their lives.
Your initiative aligns beautifully with the ‘From the Ground Up’ vision. How do you think platforms like this reshape the way pageant winners are perceived — not just as models, but also as changemakers?
Shubham Sharma: After becoming Mr. India, I knew I wanted to use this platform to help underprivileged children — and that’s how Kickstart Dreams came to life. Through the Infusion initiative by Supranational India, I got the chance to meet some amazing kids from red-light areas and shelters. Looking into their eyes, I could see the fire — the dreams they want to chase despite their circumstances. That moment hit me hard. It made me realize the kind of impact we can create if we just show up and care. Platforms like Mr. India don’t just give you a crown — they give you a voice. And when you use that voice for a cause, you’re not just seen as a model, but as someone who can actually make a difference. That’s the kind of change I want to be part of.
What message do you have for young men who feel pressured to follow traditional career paths, but deep down want to pursue their passions — whether in modelling, sports, or social service?
Shubham Sharma: If you truly believe in what you want to achieve, then just go for it. Give it your best — that’s the most important thing. But along with passion, you need discipline and hard work. Nothing happens overnight, so stay consistent and focused. I hope my story can inspire other young people to follow their hearts — to live a life that’s happier, healthier, and true to who they are. Don’t be afraid to take a different path — if it’s your calling, it’s worth it.
