Gaurav Khanna’s rise in 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable. Already a respected television actor with a strong following, he catapulted into national prominence by winning not one but two major reality shows in the same year – Celebrity MasterChef India and Bigg Boss 19. As interest in him surges across search engines and social platforms, audiences are eager to know who he is, how he got here, and what his future looks like.
This comprehensive profile brings together every major detail about his life, career, achievements, personal story, and the momentum he now carries into the next phase of his journey.
Gaurav Khanna: Quick Profile
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gaurav Khanna |
| Age (2025) | 43 |
| Birthplace | Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh |
| Education | Commerce graduate; MBA |
| Profession | Actor, reality-show performer, celebrity chef |
| Years Active | 2005–present |
| Major Achievements | Winner – Celebrity MasterChef India (2025); Winner – Bigg Boss 19 (2025) |
| Notable TV Role | Anuj Kapadia in Anupamaa |
| Spouse | Akanksha Chamola |
| Children | None |
Early Life and Education
Gaurav Khanna was born and raised in Kanpur in a middle-class family that valued education and discipline. After completing his schooling, he pursued a commerce degree followed by an MBA, which set him up for a corporate career. His first job was as a marketing manager at an IT firm, a role that helped him develop communication skills, confidence, and an analytical mindset.
However, beneath the corporate exterior was a creative spirit. His interest in theatre, storytelling, and performance gradually pushed him toward Mumbai. With a mix of ambition and risk-taking, he left the stability of a corporate job to pursue acting full-time.
Career Beginnings and Television Success
Like many newcomers, Gaurav started his television journey with commercials and supporting roles. His initial appearances in shows such as Bhabhi and Kumkum helped him gain visibility and sharpen his craft. His first lead role came with Meri Doli Tere Angana, which showcased his ability to deliver emotionally intense performances.
Over the next several years, he built an impressive portfolio, appearing in shows across genres — family drama, crime investigation, fantasy, and romance. His performances in series like CID, Jeevan Saathi, and Prem Ya Paheli – Chandrakanta displayed his versatility and earned him a loyal audience.
His most impactful role arrived with Anupamaa, where he portrayed Anuj Kapadia. This performance gave him widespread recognition and significantly boosted his popularity among television viewers.
Emergence as a Culinary Talent: Winning Celebrity MasterChef India
2025 brought an unexpected twist in Gaurav’s career trajectory. He participated in the inaugural season of Celebrity MasterChef India, competing against well-known actors and public figures. His passion for cooking, creativity with ingredients, and calm presence in the kitchen quickly made him a standout contestant.
Week after week, he impressed judges with his technique and presentation. In the finale, he delivered a flawless performance that earned him the title of Celebrity MasterChef India champion. This victory added a new dimension to his identity — not just an actor, but a multi-talented entertainer with culinary credibility.
Bigg Boss 19: Strategy, Composure, and Victory
Riding on the success of his cooking triumph, Gaurav entered Bigg Boss 19 — one of India’s most challenging and unpredictable reality shows. Unlike contestants known for explosive personalities, he approached the game with restraint, intelligence, and emotional balance.
Inside the house, his strengths became clear:
• He avoided unnecessary conflicts
• Maintained dignity even during confrontations
• Built relationships based on trust
• Performed consistently in tasks
• Displayed leadership without aggression
While some critics accused him of playing “too safe,” audiences appreciated his maturity and authenticity. His strategy was quiet but effective: stay grounded, think long-term, and avoid burning bridges.
When the finale arrived, Gaurav emerged victorious, winning ₹50 lakh and the coveted trophy. This back-to-back win — MasterChef followed by Bigg Boss — positioned him as one of the most successful reality-show personalities of the year.
Personal Life: Marriage and Family
Gaurav Khanna married actress Akanksha Chamola in November 2016. The couple first met through industry circles, developed a close friendship, and gradually built a bond that led to marriage. Akanksha has actively supported his professional journey, especially during his reality-show appearances.
As of 2025, the couple does not have children and often expresses contentment in balancing personal and professional aspirations.
Net Worth, Brand Value and Income Sources
Gaurav’s net worth has seen substantial growth in recent years, especially after his dual reality-show victories. His primary income streams include television roles, reality-show earnings, brand endorsements, social media collaborations, hosting gigs, and event appearances.
Estimated net worth in 2025: ₹8 crore to ₹12 crore
His endorsement fees and appearance charges are expected to rise significantly after Bigg Boss 19, and he is now considered one of the most bankable faces in the Indian television industry.
Lesser-Known Facts
• Gaurav transitioned from a corporate job to acting, an uncommon path in the industry
• He is fitness-focused and follows a disciplined lifestyle
• Cooking has been a passion long before MasterChef
• He is known for punctuality, politeness, and a grounded personality
• Fans often describe him as one of the most balanced contestants in Bigg Boss history
What’s Next for Gaurav Khanna?
With two major victories behind him, Gaurav is entering the strongest phase of his career. Several potential opportunities lie ahead:
• Lead roles in high-budget TV and OTT shows
• More lifestyle, food, and reality programming
• Significant brand partnerships in fitness, grooming, home appliances, and food categories
• Public appearances and motivational events
• Possible entry into films or major digital projects
His current momentum makes him one of the most promising and influential TV personalities of 2025.
Conclusion
Gaurav Khanna’s story is one of reinvention, perseverance, and quiet strength. From a middle-class upbringing in Kanpur to corporate life, from TV roles to becoming a celebrated household name, and from cooking competitions to the intensity of Bigg Boss — he has excelled in every arena he has entered.
His ability to remain grounded, think strategically, and embrace new challenges has made him a standout figure in Indian entertainment. With his talent, discipline, and rising influence, Gaurav Khanna is poised to shape the next decade of television and reality entertainment.
