Gaurav Khanna is a celebrated Indian television actor known for his powerful performances, calm personality, and extraordinary fan appeal. Best known as Anuj Kapadia from Anupamaa he created history in 2025 by winning two major reality shows back-to-back. His journey from a corporate job to becoming one of TV’s most respected stars is truly inspiring.
Early Life & Family
Born on 11 December 1981 in Kanpur Uttar Pradesh Gaurav grew up in a close-knit simple family that valued education and discipline. His parents Vinod and Shashi Khanna played a vital role in instilling strong values in him from a young age.
He attended Seth Anandram Jaipuria School where he actively participated in sports, theatre, and cultural activities. Although he didn’t envision a future in showbiz then, performing in front of audiences felt natural to him.
After finishing school Gaurav went on to pursue an MBA in marketing and management a path that initially took him far from the world of entertainment he would eventually embrace.
Before stepping into the entertainment industry Gaurav began his career in the corporate sector working as a marketing manager in an IT company. Despite the stability of his job he felt an inner pull toward creative expression. Trusting his instincts, he made the bold decision to move to Mumbai to explore acting and modelling opportunities.
Entry into the Entertainment Industry
Gaurav Khanna is a celebrated Indian television actor known for his compelling screen presence, remarkable versatility, and deeply humble nature. Today he is widely admired for his iconic portrayal of Anuj Kapadia in Anupamaa and for achieving rare success by winning reality shows in 2025 a journey that exemplifies passion, perseverance, and authenticity.
Once in Mumbai Gaurav began appearing in advertisements and print campaigns gradually understanding the workings of the industry. His television debut came with the show Bhabhi which introduced him to daily soap audiences and led to further acting opportunities.
He went on to feature in a range of TV shows including Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan,Meri Doli Tere Angana,Jeevan Saathi – Humsafar Zindagi Ke,Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam, Tere Bin,Prem Ya Paheli – Chandrakanta
Each role helped him grow as an actor and increased his visibility
Rise to Recognition
Gaurav’s popularity soared when he portrayed Senior Inspector Kavin in the iconic crime series CID. His confident body language crisp dialogue delivery and authentic portrayal won him widespread recognition. Audiences appreciated the dignity and restraint he brought to the role establishing him as a reliable and talented performer.
The defining moment in Gaurav Khanna’s career came in 2021 when he joined the cast of Anupamaa on Star Plus. His character Anuj Kapadia a warm-hearted principled businessman was instantly loved by viewers.
His emotional depth and remarkable on-screen chemistry with Rupali Ganguly earned him immense praise. For this role Gaurav received the Indian Telly Award for Best Actor (Editorial) and multiple award nominations. Anuj Kapadia not only expanded his fan base but also showcased his range and skill as an actor.
2025 proved to be a landmark year for Gaurav as he ventured into reality television and conquered new challenges.
Gaurav participated in the first season of Celebrity MasterChef India and won the title. Despite being colour-blind and the only vegetarian contestant he impressed judges and audiences with his creativity calm approach and dedication ultimately winning the cash prize of ₹20 lakh.
Later that same year Gaurav entered the Bigg Boss 19 house. His composed demeanor mature conflict management and honest personality endeared him to the nation. He went on to win the season earning widespread popularity and Love.
Other Television Work
Beyond fiction and reality TV Gaurav has explored diverse television formats. He has Hosted Nachle Ve with Saroj Khan ,Appeared in Jalwa Four 2 Ka 1 and Participated in Box Cricket League
Personal Life
Gaurav married actress Akanksha Chamola on 24 November 2016. The couple shares a supportive and grounded relationship, often emphasizing how they uplift each other’s careers. Off-camera Gaurav loves cooking travelling fitness and cherishing quiet moments with his loved ones.
Gaurav Khanna’s journey from a marketing professional to a powerhouse performer proves that passion and hard work can lead to extraordinary success. Today, he stands as one of Indian television’s most respected, admired, and relatable stars, inspiring countless people with his craft and character.
Interesting Facts & Achievements
- Indian Telly Award Best Actor for Anupamaa
- Celebrity MasterChef India (2025):Winner
- Bigg Boss Season 19 (2025):Winner
- Listed among the Top 10 Most Popular Male TV Actors for several years
- Multiple ITA and Gold Awards nominations
- Favourite food: Chhole Bhature
- Known for his calm, composed nature in real life
- Instagram Followers His official Instagram handle @gauravkhannaofficial has around 2.5 million followers (as of December 2025) reflecting his enormous popularity among fans.
