Gaurav Khanna

Overview

Gaurav Khanna (born 11 December 1981) is an Indian actor, media personality, and television host primarily known for his work in Hindi television. He gained widespread recognition for portraying Anuj Kapadia in the popular Star Plus series Anupamaa (2020–2023), earning him the Indian Telly Award for Best Actor in a Lead Role. In 2025, Khanna achieved further prominence by winning the first season of Celebrity MasterChef India and emerging as the winner of Bigg Boss 19, hosted by Salman Khan on Colors TV.

Early Life and Education

Gaurav Khanna was born in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, into a middle-class family. He completed his early education in Kanpur before pursuing higher studies. Initially, Khanna worked as a marketing manager at an IT firm in Mumbai for nearly a year, but he soon transitioned into the entertainment industry, driven by his passion for acting.

Career

Television Debut and Early Roles

Gaurav Khanna made his television debut in 2005 with a supporting role in Bhabhi on STAR One. He followed this with appearances in Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan (2006) and his first lead role as Raghav Purohit in Meri Doli Tere Angana (2007) on Zee TV.

His breakthrough came with the role of Neil Fernandez in Jeevan Saathi – Humsafar Zindagi Ke (2008–2009) on STAR Plus, which established him as a leading man in romantic dramas. Other notable early roles include:

  • Inspector Kavin in CID (2010–2011), a popular procedural drama.
  • Dr. Rohit in Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam (2012), opposite Yami Gautam.

Rise to Prominence

Gaurav Khanna career peaked with his portrayal of Anuj Kapadia, a principled businessman and romantic lead, in Anupamaa. The character's chemistry with Rupali Ganguly's Anupamaa, often referred to as the "MaAn" pairing by fans, became a cultural phenomenon, driving high TRP ratings. His performance earned critical acclaim and awards, including the Indian Telly Award.

He also hosted Hazir Jawab Birbal (2015) on Big Magic and appeared in episodic roles in shows like Love Ne Mila Di Jodi (2009).

Reality Television and Recent Ventures

In 2025, Gaurav Khanna ventured into reality TV, winning the inaugural season of Celebrity MasterChef India on Sony Entertainment Television. Despite challenges like color blindness affecting his cooking, his creativity and growth impressed judges.

Later that year, he participated in Bigg Boss 19, where his strategic gameplay, emotional authenticity, and friendships (notably with Pranit More and Mridul Tiwari) won over audiences. He clinched the title on 7 December 2025, defeating runner-up Farrhana Bhatt, and took home ₹50 lakh and a car. Host Salman Khan praised his personality, promising future collaborations. The win, however, sparked debates, with some accusing it of being "fixed," which Khanna dismissed as "keyboard warrior" allegations.


Personal Life

Gaurav Khanna married actress Akanksha Chamola in 2017 after dating for several years; they met on the set of Jeevan Saathi. The couple has chosen not to have children, a decision Khanna has publicly supported, emphasizing respect for his wife's choices. This topic surfaced during Bigg Boss 19, where he became emotional defending it against sympathy-seeking claims.

A fitness enthusiast since college, Khanna follows a strict vegetarian diet (adopted five years ago) and a disciplined workout routine, including weight training and cardio, to maintain his toned physique.

Filmography

Television (Fiction Shows)

  • 2005 – Bhabhi (Star One) – Supporting role (Debut)
  • 2006 – Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan (Star Plus) – Guest appearance
  • 2007–2008 – Meri Doli Tere Angana (Zee TV) – Raghav Purohit (Lead role)
  • 2008–2009 – Jeevan Saathi – Humsafar Zindagi Ke (Colors TV) – Neil Fernandez (Lead role)
  • 2009 – Love Ne Mila Di Jodi (Star One) – Guest appearance
  • 2010–2011 – CID (Sony TV) – Senior Inspector Kavin (Recurring)
  • 2012 – Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam (Colors TV) – Dr. Rohit (Lead role, opposite Yami Gautam)
  • 2015 – Hazir Jawab Birbal (Big Magic) – Host
  • 2020–2023 – Anupamaa (Star Plus) – Anuj Kapadia (Lead role)

Reality Shows

  • 2025 – Celebrity MasterChef India Season 1 (Sony TV) – Contestant → Winner
  • 2025 – Bigg Boss 19 (Colors TV) – Contestant → Winner (7 December 2025)

Web Series / OTT (Selected)

  • 2024 – Taali (JioCinema) – Cameo appearance
  • 2023 – Prem Leela (Dangal Play) – Lead role

Special Appearances & Episodic Roles

  • Arre Deewano Mujhe Pehchano (Star Plus)
  • Byaah Hamari Bahoo Ka (Sony TV)
  • Dil Dostii Dance (Channel V)
  • C.I.D. Chhote Heroes (Sony TV)
  • Savdhaan India (Life OK) – Multiple episodes