From Rashtrapati Bhavan to the runway: Former ADC Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal makes his modeling debut | Today’s news
After years of following the strict, unyielding codes of the Indian Army as Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to President Droupadi Murmu, Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal (retd) has now ventured into the commercial fashion industry.
The 30-year-old former special forces officer has traded in his crisp olive green uniform, polished combat boots and the weight of stars on his shoulders for streetwear fashion and re-emerged as a model.
A distinct career key
Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal took early retirement from the Indian Army in August 2026 after 12 years of service.
According to a report by Business Today, Sambyal has officially teamed up with popular homegrown clothing brand Bonkers Corner for a new youth-focused streetwear collection.
The campaign, which features Sambyal modeling alongside TV actress Anushka Sen, represents a very unconventional leap from the gritty, high-stakes environment of the armed forces to the glamorous, fast-paced world of urban fashion.
“Earned, not borrowed”
For Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal, the transition is not just about changing clothes, but also about transferring military discipline to a new cultural space.
According to the brand’s official website, the collaborative streetwear line – launched under the name ‘MAJ RISHABH (RETD.) X BONKERS’ – heavily incorporates the slogan ‘Earned, not borrowed’.
Brand representatives noted that the message reflects the themes of true success, individuality and leadership, which are closely related to the former officer’s real-life trajectory.
Industry observers and fashion commentators were quick to note his unique aesthetic, noting that his military background brings a rare level of gravitas to the studio.
“It’s a compelling, unexpected fusion of two distinct cultures – military discipline and urban fashion,” commented an industry commentator on the brand’s launch platform. “It’s an inspiring transition that shows how a veteran can channel his discipline, leadership and vision into creative entrepreneurial spaces like home fashion.”
The collection is available on the Bonkers Corner website where consumers can browse all the items featured in a special section dedicated to Major Rishabh.
Redefining life after the military
Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal, who was drafted into the Indian Army in 2014, previously led the Jat Regiment contingent in the 2021 Republic Parade and later earned the prestigious Balidaan Badge with the elite 4 Para (Special Forces) before his high-profile, widely acclaimed stint at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
While he has traded in his combat uniform for designer collections, the core of his identity remains largely unchanged.
Taking the fashion world by storm, Major Sambyal continues to command attention and proves that a strong and disciplined presence can lead the way, regardless of the outfit.
