Gaurav Khanna
| Gaurav Khanna | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | 11 December 1981 Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | MBA |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years active | 2004–present |
| Known for | CID, Anupamaa |
| Spouse(s) | Akanksha Chamola (m. 2016) |
| Parents | Vinod Khanna (father) Shashi Khanna (mother) |
| Religion | Hinduism |
Gaurav Khanna (born 11 December 1981) is an Indian television actor and model, best known for portraying Senior Inspector Kavin in the long-running crime series CID and Anuj Kapadia in the popular Star Plus drama Anupamaa. Known for his charm, acting range, and professionalism, Khanna is one of the most admired figures in Indian television. His strong screen presence and natural performances have earned him a loyal fan base across the country. In 2025, he further expanded his fame by joining the reality TV show Bigg Boss Season 19, where his warm demeanor and grounded nature made him one of the most respected contestants.[1]
Early Life & Education
Gaurav Khanna was born on 11 December 1981 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, to Vinod and Shashi Khanna. He completed his schooling at Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Kanpur, where he developed an early interest in theatre, sports, and public speaking. After completing his graduation, he pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and began his professional career as a marketing manager in an IT firm.
Despite having a stable corporate job, Gaurav’s passion for acting led him to move to Mumbai. His strong educational background and corporate experience gave him the discipline and confidence that would later reflect in his acting career.
Career
Early Career
Gaurav began his entertainment career in modeling, featuring in numerous television commercials before landing acting roles. He made his television debut with the show Bhabhi (2006) as Bhuvan Sareen, marking the start of his acting journey. His dedication and talent quickly made him a favorite among casting directors.
Rise to Prominence
Khanna gained recognition through his impactful performances in shows like:
- Meri Doli Tere Angana (2007–2008)
- Love Ne Mila Di Jodi (2009)
- Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam (2009–2010) – opposite Yami Gautam as Abeer Bajpayee
- Ardhangini – Jeevan Saathi and Chandrakanta – which showcased his range in both romantic and historical genres.
However, his portrayal of Senior Inspector Kavin in Sony TV’s iconic crime series CID became a defining moment in his career. His performance was widely appreciated for its strength, wit, and action-oriented intensity.
Stardom with Anupamaa
In 2021, Gaurav joined the cast of Anupamaa as Anuj Kapadia, opposite Rupali Ganguly. His portrayal of a calm, mature, and romantic businessman struck a chord with audiences nationwide. The role earned him immense love and the Indian Telly Award for Best Actor (Editorial). His chemistry with Rupali Ganguly became one of the most celebrated on Indian television.
Reality Television and Hosting
Apart from acting, Khanna has showcased his versatility in other television formats. He hosted Nachle Ve with Saroj Khan (2011) and participated in reality entertainment shows like 9XM’s Jalwa Four 2 Ka 1 and Box Cricket League. In 2025, he entered the Bigg Boss 19 house, where his composed personality and sense of humor made him a favorite among fans and housemates alike.
Culinary Ventures
Beyond acting, Gaurav is passionate about cooking. His participation in MasterChef India, where he reportedly won the season, showcased another side of his talent. His culinary success added to his reputation as a multifaceted personality.
Notable Works
- CID (2014–2018) – Senior Inspector Kavin
- Anupamaa (2021–present) – Anuj Kapadia
- Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam (2009–2010) – Abeer Bajpayee
- Love Ne Mila Di Jodi (2009) – Prithvi Saxena
- Nachle Ve with Saroj Khan (2011) – Host
- Bigg Boss Season 19 (2025) – Contestant
Achievements and Recognition
Gaurav Khanna’s career spans over two decades, marked by consistent performances and audience appreciation.
- Indian Telly Award for Best Actor (Editorial) – for Anupamaa
- Featured among the Top 10 Most Popular Male TV Actors (2022–2024)
- Nominated for multiple ITA and Gold Awards
- Recognized for his diverse contributions to television as both actor and host
In addition, his MasterChef win (if confirmed) and appearance on Bigg Boss 19 have further enhanced his popularity, showcasing his multidimensional skills beyond acting.
Personal Life
Gaurav Khanna married television actress Akanksha Chamola in 2016. The couple is known for their positive public image and supportive relationship. He maintains a low-key personal life, balancing his professional commitments with fitness, cooking, and travel.