Bigg Boss OTT Hindi Season 1 Contestant Raqesh Bapat Biography

Raqesh Bapat: A Versatile Talent in Indian Entertainment

Raqesh Bapat, an acclaimed Indian actor and model, has left an indelible mark on both the big and small screens with his versatile performances. From his notable roles in films like “Tum Bin” and “Savita Damodar Paranjape” to his captivating presence on television shows like “Maryada: Lekin Kab Tak?” and “Qubool Hai,” Raqesh’s journey in the world of entertainment is a testament to his talent and dedication.

Early Life and Personal Details

Raqesh Bapat was born on September 1, 1978, in Amravati, Maharashtra, India. Even from a young age, Raqesh showed promise in the arts, winning the National Award at the junior level for his exceptional talent in painting. His passion for creativity and expression would later lead him to a successful career in the entertainment industry.

In 2011, Raqesh Bapat married Riddhi Dogra, but sadly, the couple parted ways in 2019. His personal life took a turn when he started dating fellow actress Shamita Shetty in September 2021, during their time together on Bigg Boss OTT.

Career Highlights

Bollywood Ventures (2001–2005)

Raqesh Bapat’s foray into Bollywood began with the movie “Tum Bin” in 2001, where he portrayed the character of Amar Shah. This opportunity arose when the director’s wife noticed Raqesh in a toothpaste advertisement and recommended him for the role. He continued to impress audiences with roles in films like “Dil Vil Pyar Vyar” (2002), “Koi Mere Dil Mein Hai” (2005), and “Naam Gum Jaayega” (2005).

Television Stardom (2005–2012)

In 2005, Raqesh made his television debut with the Sphere Origins drama “Saat Phere – Saloni Ka Safar,” where he played the roles of Neel and Neerav. This marked the beginning of a successful television career, with notable roles in shows like “Seven” (2010) and “Maryada: Lekin Kab Tak?” (2010–2012), where he portrayed the male protagonist Aditya Singh Jakhar.

Comeback and Recent Projects (2012–Present)

After a brief hiatus from films, Raqesh made a comeback in 2012 with the drama film “Heroine,” directed by Madhur Bhandarkar. He also ventured into Marathi cinema with “Aayna Ka Bayna” (2012), marking his debut in the regional film industry. Raqesh’s versatility was further showcased in TV shows like “Hongey Judaa Na Hum” (2012–2013) and “Bahu Hamari Rajni Kant” (2016–2017).

Reality TV

Aside from his acting career, Raqesh Bapat has also left his mark on reality television. In 2013, he participated in the dance reality show “Nach Baliye 6” alongside his then-wife Riddhi Dogra, showcasing his dancing skills to the audience. His charismatic presence was also felt in reality shows like “Bigg Boss OTT 1” (2021) and “Bigg Boss 15” (2021), where he displayed his resilience and determination.

Pageantry

Raqesh Bapat’s charm and talent have also earned him recognition in pageantry. In 1999, he was the first runner-up in the Grasim Mr. India pageant. Additionally, he achieved the same feat as the first runner-up in the Mister International competition, showcasing his appeal on an international stage.

Raqesh Bapat’s Filmography

Films

• Tum Bin (2001) as Amar Shah
• Dil Vil Pyar Vyar (2002) as Gaurav
• Tumse Milke Wrong Number (2003) as Raj
• Kaun Hai Jo Sapno Mein Aaya (2004) as Sunny Khanna
• Koi Mere Dil Mein Hai (2005) as Sameer
• Naam Gum Jaayega (2005) as Vishal Saxena
• Jai Maa Santoshi (2006) as Anuraag
• Jaadu Sa Chal Gaya (2006) as Rahul
• Heroine (2012) as Sameer Khan
• Aayna Ka Bayna (2012) as Saagar (Marathi Film)
• Gippi (2013) as Chemistry Teacher
• Citizen (2015) (Marathi Film)
• Vrundavan (2016) as Krish (Marathi Film)
• Sarv Mangal Savdhan (2016) (Marathi Film)
• Savita Damodar Paranjpe (2018) as Ashok
• WhatsApp Love (2019) as Aditya
• Mumbai Apli Ahe (2019) as Raja
• Forever (2019) (Romantic thriller)
• Sarsenapati Hambirrao (2022) as Sarjah Khan
• Khurchi (2024) (Upcoming)

Television

• Saat Phere – Saloni Ka Safar (2005–2008) as Neel / Neerav
• Ek Packet Umeed (2008) as Anuj
• Seven (2010) as Shlok
• Maryada: Lekin Kab Tak? (2010–2012) as Aditya Jakhar
• Hongey Judaa Na Hum (2012–2013) as Rohan Mishra
• Nach Baliye 6 (2013) (Contestant, 6th place)
• Qubool Hai (2014) as Asad Ahmed Khan
• Simply Baatein With Raveena (2014) (Guest)
• Yeh Hai Aashiqui (2016) (Guest)
• Bahu Hamari Rajni Kant (2016–2017) as Shantanu Kant
• Tu Aashiqui (2018) as Reyansh Diwan
• Ishq Mein Marjawan (2018) (Guest)
• Bigg Boss OTT 1 (2021) (Contestant, 4th place)
• Bigg Boss 15 (2021) (Contestant, 18th place)
• Navri Mile Hitlerla (2024–Present) as Abhiram Jahagirdar (Marathi debut lead)

Web Series

• Assi Nabbe Poore Sau (2021) as Junaid Alam

Music Videos

• Tere Vich Rab Disda (2022) by Sachet–Parampara

Pageantry

• Grasim Mr. India – 1999: First runner-up
• Mister International: First runner-up

Conclusion

Raqesh Bapat’s journey in the entertainment industry is a testament to his versatility and dedication. From his memorable roles in Bollywood films to captivating performances on television and reality shows like Bigg Boss OTT, Raqesh continues to leave a lasting impact with his talent and charm, earning him a special place in the hearts of fans.

Name: Raqesh Bapat

Other Name: Rakesh Vashisht

Evicted: Bigg Boss OTT Season 1 – 3rd runner-up

Season Host: Karan Johar

Network: Voot

Number of Days: 42

Number of Contestants: 13

Premier Date: 8 August 2021

Prize Money:

Other Prizes (if any):

Date of Birth (DOB): September 1, 1978

Birth Place: Amravati, Maharashtra, India

Settled Place: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

Profession/Occupation: Actor, Model

Education: Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Parents: Padmakar Bapat (Father) 

Siblings: Sheetal Bapat (Sister)

Spouse: Riddhi Dogra – Divorced

Children:

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