Popular TV actor Gaurav Khanna recently opened up in an interview with Siddharth Kannan about his uncertain beginnings in the entertainment industry. Known today for his powerhouse performances, Gaurav’s entry into television was far from smooth.
He began his career by doing advertisements while still working a corporate job. His first ad, for Tata Indicom, paid him ₹40-50K for just seven hours—a sum that covered his expenses for four months at age 24. Yet, acting was never the plan. He was aiming to go abroad for his MBA and only saw ads as side income.
Things changed when someone spotted him at a gym and encouraged him to audition for TV. Unfamiliar with the industry’s long waiting hours, Gaurav walked out of his first audition after just 30 minutes. His blunt honesty caught the attention of casting directors, who eventually called him back, impressed by his directness.
He later accepted a role in Bhabhi, quitting his ₹55K/month job for a 20-day TV gig promising ₹6K/day. But fate pulled a fast one—his character was killed off in just three days. “I didn’t tell my family. I sat at home in panic, thinking it was the worst decision of my life,” he said.
But fortune smiled again. Someone had noticed him during those three days and called him in for Kumkum, where he landed a pivotal role. That role launched his successful TV journey.
Read Also: