Updated: January 29, 2026
Gaurav Khanna has become one of the most loved faces on Indian television, blending charm, talent, and a grounded personality that wins hearts effortlessly. From his breakout roles in daily soaps to stealing the spotlight on reality TV, his story is all about bold choices and consistent hard work. Whether you know him as the intense Anuj Kapadia from Anupamaa or the calm strategist who lifted the Bigg Boss 19 trophy, Gaurav’s journey feels relatable and motivating.
Born on December 11, 1981, in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Gaurav turned 44 this year. He grew up in a simple family that emphasized education and values. After completing his schooling, he pursued an MBA and even stepped into the corporate world as a marketing manager in an IT firm for about a year. But the glitz of entertainment pulled him in, leading to a career switch that changed everything.
Table of Contents
Here’s a quick overview of key details:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gaurav Khanna |
| Date of Birth | December 11, 1981 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 44 years |
| Birthplace | Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Education | MBA |
| Height | Approximately 5’9″ (175 cm) |
| Spouse | Akanksha Chamola (married 2016) |
| Notable Shows | Anupamaa, CID, Love Ne Mila Di Jodi |
| Major Reality Wins | Celebrity MasterChef India (2025), Bigg Boss 19 (2025) |
| Occupation | Actor, Reality TV Participant |
Early Career: From Ads to TV Breakthrough
Gaurav didn’t dive straight into acting. He started with modeling and TV commercials, which gave him his first taste of the camera. His official TV debut came around 2004-2006 with small roles in shows like Bhabhi and Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan. He quickly moved to lead parts, shining in serials such as Jeevan Saathi, Love Ne Mila Di Jodi, and Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam.
One of his standout early roles was as Senior Inspector Kavin in CID, where his sharp presence and intensity made him memorable. These projects built his fan base steadily, proving he could handle drama, romance, and action with equal ease.
Rise to Fame: The Anupamaa Era and Beyond
Everything changed in 2021 when Gaurav joined Anupamaa as Anuj Kapadia. His portrayal of the supportive, emotional businessman opposite Rupali Ganguly’s Anupamaa struck a chord with millions. The character’s depth, combined with Gaurav’s natural acting, earned him widespread praise and awards, including recognition for Best Actor.
Even after exiting the show in 2024, his popularity stayed strong. He took on diverse roles like Prince Virendra Singh in Prem Ya Paheli – Chandrakanta and Akshay Sinha in Tere Bin. But it was reality TV that took his stardom to another level.
Reality TV Triumphs: MasterChef and Bigg Boss Glory
In 2025, Gaurav surprised everyone by winning Celebrity MasterChef India, showcasing his hidden cooking talent and cool composure under pressure. Then came Bigg Boss 19, where his strategic gameplay, maturity, and genuine nature won over audiences and fellow contestants. He emerged as the winner, adding another feather to his cap and proving he’s more than just a TV actor—he’s a versatile entertainer.
- Key Highlights from Reality Shows:
- Won Celebrity MasterChef India in 2025
- Lifted the trophy in Bigg Boss 19 (2025)
- Known for calm demeanor and smart decisions
- Opened up about personal life, including color blindness and family choices
His journey shows that taking risks—like leaving a stable job or entering the Bigg Boss house—can lead to massive rewards.
Personal Life: Family, Marriage, and Grounded Roots
Gaurav married actress Akanksha Chamola in 2016. The couple shares a supportive bond, often seen cheering each other on. Akanksha, known for shows like Swaragini, has been a pillar through his highs and lows. They keep their private life low-key, focusing on mutual respect and shared interests like fitness, travel, and cooking.
Recent headlines have sparked curiosity about their relationship, with some cryptic social media posts and discussions from Bigg Boss days. But Gaurav has always defended their choices openly, emphasizing partnership over pressure. They remain a favorite couple for many fans who admire their honesty.
In conclusion, Gaurav Khanna’s story is a perfect mix of determination, talent, and humility. From a corporate desk in Kanpur to winning hearts nationwide and conquering reality TV, he inspires anyone chasing dreams against the odds. As he continues to pick meaningful projects, one thing’s clear: Gaurav isn’t just an actor—he’s a winner in every sense. Keep shining, Gaurav!