Gaurav Khanna was born on 11 December 1981 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. He grew up in a middle-class Punjabi family, where education and discipline were given high importance. His father, Vinod Khanna, was in the export business, and his mother, Sakshi Khanna, was a homemaker. Gaurav also has an elder sister.
He completed his schooling in Kanpur and later pursued a degree in Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing. Before entering the world of television, Gaurav worked as a marketing manager in an IT firm, showcasing his professional side. However, his love for performing arts and his dynamic personality eventually led him to the entertainment industry.
Career Beginnings
Gaurav Khanna did not initially plan to become an actor. His entry into the television industry happened by chance when he was spotted during auditions. He started his career with small roles in advertisements and gradually moved to television serials. His charming looks and natural acting talent quickly caught the attention of producers and directors.
He made his acting debut in 2004 with the show Bhabhi. After that, he appeared in supporting roles in several TV serials, slowly carving his niche in the industry.
Rise to Fame
Gaurav Khanna rose to prominence with his performance in shows like:
- Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan
- Meri Doli Tere Angana
- Jeevan Saathi
- Santaan
However, his breakthrough came with the popular series Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam (2009–2010), where he played the role of Abeer Bajpayee opposite Yami Gautam. His portrayal of a young man in love, fighting against societal barriers, won him immense appreciation from viewers and critics alike.
Over the years, Gaurav proved his versatility by experimenting with different genres. He has acted in romantic dramas, family serials, mythological shows, and even reality programs.
Notable Work
Some of his most popular shows include:
- Kumkum
- Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam
- CID (as an investigating officer)
- Laal Ishq
- Chandrakanta
- Prem Ya Paheli – Chandrakanta
- Anupamaa (as Anuj Kapadia, his most celebrated role in recent years)
His role as Anuj Kapadia in Anupamaa (2021–present) brought him renewed fame and made him a household name across India. The chemistry between Gaurav and lead actress Rupali Ganguly became one of the show’s biggest highlights, earning him a massive fan following.
Style and Persona
Gaurav Khanna is admired for his charming screen presence, expressive eyes, and versatility. He can convincingly play both soft-spoken romantic characters and powerful, intense roles. Off-screen, he is known to be humble, disciplined, and dedicated to his craft.
Personal Life
In 2016, Gaurav Khanna married actress Akanksha Chamola, who is also a well-known TV personality. The couple often shares glimpses of their life on social media, delighting fans with their chemistry and warmth.
Outside of acting, Gaurav is passionate about fitness, traveling, and spending time with family. Despite being in the glamour world, he prefers a low-key lifestyle and values his personal space.
Achievements
- Established himself as a successful television actor with a career spanning nearly two decades.
- Received multiple nominations and awards for his performances in TV serials.
- Gained massive popularity for his portrayal of Anuj Kapadia in Anupamaa.
- Recognized for his ability to take on diverse roles across genres.
Legacy
From his humble beginnings in Kanpur to becoming one of the most admired actors on Indian television, Gaurav Khanna’s journey is an inspiring tale of dedication and passion. His ability to balance romance, intensity, and emotion has made him a favorite among audiences of all ages. With his ongoing success in Anupamaa and his ever-growing fan base, Gaurav continues to be one of the most respected and loved names in Indian television.
