Gaurav Khanna birthday special - Bigg Boss 19 winner’s rise to fame and success
Gaurav Khanna's rise to fame is a result of years of consistent work in Indian television and strategic career moves, culminating in major reality show wins. Here are the key points detailing his rise to fame.
Corporate career start Before entering showbiz, Gaurav completed an MBA and worked as a marketing manager for an IT firm for about a year.
2/9
Early TV roles and struggles He started his acting career with small roles in TV commercials and shows like Bhabhi (2006). He faced financial hardship and numerous rejections during his initial years.
3/9
First lead role and prominence His first lead role came in Meri Doli Tere Angana in 2007. He subsequently gained prominence with roles in popular serials like Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam and Jeevan Saathi.
4/9
Iconic role as inspector Kavin His portrayal of Senior Inspector Kavin in the long-running crime series CID brought him widespread recognition and made him a household name.
5/9
Anupamaa catapult The role of Anuj Kapadia in the hit show Anupamaa from 2021 to 2024 was a major turning point, earning him immense critical acclaim, an award for Best Actor, and a massive, loyal fanbase.
Celebrity MasterChef India win In early 2025, he participated in and won the first season of Celebrity MasterChef India, showcasing his versatility and down-to-earth personality outside of acting.
7/9
Strategic Bigg Boss 19 entry Entering the Bigg Boss 19 house at a high point in his career, he became one of the highest-paid contestants.
8/9
Bigg Boss 19 victory His calm demeanor, smart gameplay, and authentic nature in the chaotic reality show resonated deeply with the audience, leading him to win the Bigg Boss 19 trophy in December 2025, solidifying his superstar status.
Future plans He is touted to be seen in a Salman Khan movie and will also be working on a project with producer Rajan Shahi which will not be television related.