Rohit Saraf has emerged as one of Bollywood's most promising young actors, captivating both Indian and international audiences with his versatile performances. From his breakthrough role in Shah Rukh Khan's Dear Zindagi to becoming Netflix India's beloved "National Crush" through Mismatched, this 28-year-old actor represents the new generation of Indian cinema that seamlessly bridges traditional Bollywood with global digital content.
Born in Kathmandu, Nepal, and raised in Mumbai, Rohit's journey from a teenager pursuing acting dreams to a $3 million net worth star showcases the evolving landscape of Indian entertainment. His recent physical transformation for Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari and inclusion in the Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 list demonstrate his commitment to both craft and commercial success.
For Western audiences discovering Indian cinema through OTT platforms, Rohit represents the perfect introduction to Bollywood's contemporary face - relatable, authentic, and globally minded. For Indian fans, he embodies the dream of making it big through talent and perseverance, having moved to Mumbai at just 15 after personal tragedy.
Real Name | Rohit Suresh Saraf |
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Screen Name | Rohit Saraf |
Date of Birth | December 8, 1996 (28 years in 2025) |
Net Worth | $3 million / ₹25 crore (2025) |
Height | 5'9" / 175cm |
Industry | Bollywood Actor & OTT Star |
Languages | Hindi, English, Nepali |
Debut Film | Dear Zindagi (2016) |
Notable Works | Mismatched, The Sky Is Pink, Ludo, Hichki |
Rohit Suresh Saraf represents the new face of Indian cinema - an actor who effortlessly moves between Bollywood films and international digital content. Born in Kathmandu, Nepal, to Indian parents, his multicultural background gives him a unique perspective that resonates with global audiences while staying rooted in Indian values.
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His journey from Nepal to Mumbai mirrors the dreams of countless South Asian youth who see Bollywood as their gateway to stardom. Unlike traditional star kids who inherit industry connections, Rohit's path represents pure merit - a narrative that appeals strongly to both Indian audiences and international viewers discovering Bollywood through streaming platforms.
What sets Rohit apart in today's entertainment landscape is his ability to embody the "boy next door" charm while delivering nuanced performances across genres. His work spans from intimate indie films to big-budget commercial movies, from heartwarming Netflix series to prestigious international co-productions. This versatility makes him particularly valuable in an era where content crosses borders instantly.
His cultural impact extends beyond mere entertainment. For the Indian diaspora in the US and UK, Rohit represents a bridge between their heritage and contemporary global culture. His characters often deal with universal themes of love, family expectations, and personal growth - making Indian stories accessible to wider audiences without losing their authentic cultural essence.
Hindi Name | रोहित सारफ |
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Industry Debut | Dear Zindagi (2016) |
Languages Worked In | Hindi, English, Norwegian |
Film Industry | Bollywood/Digital Content |
Rohit Saraf was born on December 8, 1996, in Kathmandu, Nepal, to Indian parents who had settled there for business. His father Suresh Saraf worked in the business sector, while his mother Anita Saraf managed the household and supported the family's dreams. Rohit grew up with three siblings - brothers Ankit Saraf and sisters Swati Saraf Agarwal and Megha Saraf.
The family's middle-class background instilled strong values of hard work and perseverance in Rohit. Despite being born in Nepal, his parents ensured he remained connected to his Indian roots, speaking Hindi at home and celebrating Indian festivals. This bicultural upbringing later proved invaluable in his acting career, giving him the ability to connect with diverse audiences.
Tragedy struck the family when Rohit was just 15 years old - his father passed away, leaving the family in financial difficulties. This life-changing event forced young Rohit to mature quickly and take on responsibilities beyond his age. Rather than abandoning his dreams, he saw this as motivation to succeed and support his family.
The decision to move to Mumbai after his father's death was both practical and aspirational. His mother, Anita Saraf, showed remarkable courage in supporting her teenage son's acting ambitions despite their challenging circumstances. This move from Kathmandu to Mumbai represents one of the most significant migrations in modern Indian entertainment - similar to countless young dreamers who leave their comfort zones to pursue Bollywood dreams.
Rohit completed his early education at St. Francis D'Assisi High School in Solapur, Mumbai, after the family relocated from Nepal. The transition from Kathmandu to Mumbai's educational system required significant adjustment, but Rohit adapted well due to his multilingual abilities and natural social skills.
He pursued his higher education at the prestigious St. Xavier's College, Mumbai, where he earned a degree in Arts. This institution is known for producing many successful professionals across various fields, including numerous Bollywood personalities. The liberal arts education provided Rohit with a broad cultural foundation that later enhanced his acting abilities.
During his college years, Rohit actively participated in cultural activities and theater productions. His natural flair for performance became evident through college plays and cultural events. He also trained in Kathak, a classical Indian dance form, which improved his body language, expressions, and overall stage presence - skills that proved invaluable in his acting career.
Rohit Saraf began his professional journey in 2012 with the television series "Best Friends Forever?" on Channel V. This debut gave him initial exposure to the entertainment industry and helped him understand the technical aspects of filming. Though television was his starting point, Rohit always harbored dreams of making it to the big screen.
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His film debut came in 2016 with the Shah Rukh Khan and Alia Bhatt starrer "Dear Zindagi," directed by Gauri Shinde. Though his role was relatively small, working alongside such established stars provided him with invaluable learning experiences. The film's success and critical acclaim gave Rohit his first taste of Bollywood's potential for both commercial success and meaningful storytelling.
Following Dear Zindagi, Rohit appeared in Rani Mukerji's comeback film "Hichki" (2018), where he played one of the students. His natural acting style and screen presence caught the attention of casting directors and filmmakers. These early roles, though supporting in nature, established him as a reliable young actor capable of holding his own alongside major stars.
Rohit's breakthrough came with "The Sky Is Pink" (2019), starring alongside Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Farhan Akhtar. Directed by Shonali Bose, this emotionally charged family drama showcased Rohit's ability to handle complex emotional scenes. His portrayal of a young man dealing with family tragedy resonated with audiences who had experienced similar losses.
Major Career Milestones | |
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Television Debut | Best Friends Forever? (2012) |
Film Debut | Dear Zindagi (2016) |
Breakthrough Role | The Sky Is Pink (2019) |
OTT Success | Mismatched (2020-2022) |
International Recognition | What Will People Say (2017) |
Recent Success | Ishq Vishk Rebound (2024) |
The multi-starrer "Ludo" (2020) on Netflix further established Rohit as a versatile actor capable of comedy, drama, and ensemble work. Directed by Anurag Basu, this anthology film showcased different facets of his acting range. His chemistry with co-stars and natural comic timing made him a standout in the star-studded cast.
Rohit's international exposure came through the Norwegian film "What Will People Say" (2017), which was selected as Norway's entry for the 91st Academy Awards. This cross-cultural project demonstrated his ability to work in international productions and appeal to global audiences - a rare achievement for young Indian actors.
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His recent projects include "Vikram Vedha" (2022) with Hrithik Roshan and Saif Ali Khan, and "Ishq Vishk Rebound" (2024), which marked his first lead role in a major Bollywood production. These projects have solidified his position as one of the most promising actors of his generation, capable of both supporting and leading roles.
Rohit's most significant breakthrough came with Netflix's "Mismatched" (2020-2022), where he played Rishi Singh Shekhawat opposite Prajakta Koli. This romantic comedy-drama series became a cultural phenomenon, especially among Gen-Z audiences. The show's success established Rohit as the "National Crush" of Indian digital content consumers.
"Mismatched" perfectly captured the zeitgeist of young Indian romance in the digital age. Rohit's portrayal of a coding enthusiast navigating love and career resonated with millions of young Indians and diaspora audiences. The show's international success on Netflix introduced him to global audiences, particularly in markets where Indian content is gaining popularity.
The series' success demonstrates the power of OTT platforms in creating new stars. Unlike traditional Bollywood, where success often depends on big-screen box office numbers, streaming platforms allow actors like Rohit to build dedicated fan bases through intimate, character-driven storytelling. His social media following exploded post-Mismatched, with fans creating countless memes and fan art.
This OTT success has positioned Rohit at the forefront of India's digital content revolution. As streaming platforms continue to invest in Indian content for global markets, actors like him become valuable assets who can appeal to both domestic and international audiences simultaneously.
Rohit Saraf maintains a relatively private personal life despite his growing fame. Currently unmarried, he focuses primarily on his career while maintaining strong family bonds. His mother, Anita Saraf, remains his biggest support system and continues to guide his career decisions from their Mumbai home.
His love for animals is well-documented through his social media presence, where he frequently features his pet dogs Rudy and Pishu. This genuine affection for animals has endeared him to fans and reflects his caring nature. Animal welfare causes are close to his heart, and he often uses his platform to promote pet adoption and animal rights.
Marital Status | Unmarried |
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Current Residence | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
Pets | Dogs - Rudy and Pishu |
Languages Spoken | Hindi, English, Nepali |
Hobbies | Dancing, Fitness, Traveling |
Special Skills | Kathak Dancing, Fitness Training |
Rohit's multicultural background - being born in Nepal to Indian parents - gives him a unique perspective on identity and belonging. This experience resonates with many diaspora audiences who navigate multiple cultural identities. His comfort with this multicultural identity makes him particularly appealing to international markets where Indian content is expanding.
Despite his success, Rohit maintains humility and groundedness that stem from his family's middle-class values and the early tragedy that shaped his worldview. He often speaks about the importance of family, hard work, and staying true to one's roots - values that resonate across cultures.
Rohit Saraf has built a substantial financial foundation through his diverse acting career. As of 2025, his estimated net worth stands at $3 million (₹25 crores), making him one of the most financially successful actors of his generation. This wealth comes from a combination of film fees, OTT projects, brand endorsements, and smart investments.
Net Worth (2025) | $3 million / ₹25 crores |
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Annual Income | ₹8-10 crores |
Per Film Fee | ₹2-3 crores |
OTT Projects | ₹50 lakhs - ₹1 crore per series |
Brand Endorsements | ₹20-30 lakhs per deal |
Other Sources | Social media, appearances, investments |
His income streams have diversified significantly since his Mismatched success. Film projects now command higher fees, with his recent lead roles earning him ₹2-3 crores per project. OTT platforms, particularly Netflix, have proven lucrative with series contracts ranging from ₹50 lakhs to ₹1 crore depending on the project scale and his role prominence.
Brand endorsements form another significant income source. His appeal to young demographics makes him valuable for lifestyle, fashion, and tech brands targeting Gen-Z consumers. His authentic social media presence commands premium rates for sponsored content and brand partnerships.
Rohit maintains a comfortable yet modest lifestyle that reflects his middle-class upbringing and financial prudence. His primary residence is a well-appointed apartment in Mumbai's suburban areas, chosen for its accessibility to film studios and production houses. The property, estimated at ₹5-7 crores, features modern amenities while maintaining a homely atmosphere.
Primary Residence | Mumbai Apartment - ₹5-7 crores |
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Vehicles | BMW 3 Series - ₹45 lakhs Honda City - ₹15 lakhs |
Investments | Mutual funds, fixed deposits, real estate |
Spending Priorities | Family, fitness, animal welfare, career development |
Rohit Saraf stands 5'9" (175 cm) tall with a naturally lean build that he has transformed significantly through dedicated fitness routines. His recent physical transformation for "Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari" showcased his commitment to evolving as an actor and taking on more diverse roles.
Height | 5'9" / 175 cm |
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Weight | 70-75 kg (varies by role requirements) |
Body Type | Athletic/Lean Muscular |
Eye Color | Black |
Hair Color | Black |
Distinctive Features | Expressive eyes, charming smile, boy-next-door appeal |
Fitness Routine | Weight training, cardio, functional fitness |
His 12-month fitness transformation gained significant media attention and fan appreciation. The transformation included structured weight training, cardiovascular exercises, and strict nutritional planning. This dedication demonstrates his professional commitment and willingness to adapt physically for different roles.
Rohit's style evolution reflects his journey from a television actor to a leading man. His fashion sense combines casual comfort with contemporary trends, making him relatable to young audiences while maintaining sophistication for formal events. His styling choices often feature accessible brands mixed with occasional designer pieces, making his looks aspirational yet achievable for fans.
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Rohit Saraf has received significant recognition for his contribution to Indian entertainment, with achievements that span both domestic and international platforms. His inclusion in the Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 list for 2025 represents one of the highest honors for young professionals in Asia.
Year | Award/Recognition | Category | Work/Achievement |
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2025 | Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 | Entertainment | Overall career impact |
2020 | The Times Most Desirable Men | No. 39 | Public appeal and popularity |
2020 | Netflix Fan Favorite | Best Actor | Mismatched series |
2019 | Rising Star Award | Young Talent | The Sky Is Pink |
Beyond formal awards, Rohit's impact on popular culture is evident through social media trends, fan art, and memes that celebrate his characters. His portrayal in Mismatched created the "Rishi Shekhawat" phenomenon, with young audiences adopting his character's mannerisms and style.
His international recognition through "What Will People Say" brought attention to his versatility and cross-cultural appeal. Being part of an Academy Award-submitted film at such a young age highlighted his potential for global projects and established him as an actor capable of representing Indian talent internationally.
Industry professionals consistently praise his professionalism, preparation, and natural talent. Directors and co-stars frequently mention his collaborative approach and ability to elevate scenes through his authentic performances. This reputation has led to increasingly prestigious projects and collaborations with A-list stars.
Rohit actively supports animal welfare causes, using his platform to promote pet adoption and responsible pet ownership. His genuine love for his dogs, Rudy and Pishu, extends to broader animal rights advocacy. He frequently shares content encouraging fans to adopt rather than shop for pets and supports various animal shelters.
His philanthropic activities also extend to education and youth empowerment. Having experienced financial difficulties after his father's death, Rohit understands the importance of educational opportunities for underprivileged youth. He quietly supports scholarship programs and educational initiatives, though he prefers to keep such activities private.
Environmental consciousness is another area where Rohit demonstrates social responsibility. His social media often features content about sustainable living, waste reduction, and environmental protection. This activism resonates particularly well with younger audiences who prioritize environmental issues.
Currently, Rohit Saraf is working on several high-profile projects that promise to further establish his position in both Bollywood and international markets. His upcoming film "Thug Life" represents a significant career milestone, while "Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari" showcases his evolution as a leading man.
Project | Role | Director/Platform | Release Timeline | Status |
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Thug Life | Supporting Role | Major Production | 2025 | Post-production |
Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari | Lead Role | Bollywood Production | 2025 | Completed |
Untitled Netflix Project | Lead Role | Netflix Original | 2026 | Pre-production |
His recent release "Ishq Vishk Rebound" marked his first solo lead role in a major theatrical release. The film's performance and audience reception have positioned him for more leading man opportunities in commercial Bollywood projects.
The success of his digital content has led to multiple OTT platform offers. Netflix's continued interest in collaborating with him reflects his value in the streaming market, where his fan base translates directly to viewership numbers and subscriber engagement.
Industry insiders report that Rohit's market value has increased significantly following his Forbes recognition and successful film releases. Multiple production houses are competing to sign him for lead roles, indicating his transition from supporting actor to leading man is complete.
His social media engagement rates continue to outperform many established stars, making him valuable for both artistic projects and commercial ventures. Brand managers consider him one of the most authentic celebrity endorsers, with high conversion rates for promoted products.
Here are fascinating lesser-known facts about Rohit Saraf that showcase his unique journey and personality:
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Rohit Saraf maintains an active and engaging social media presence that has contributed significantly to his popularity among younger audiences. His authentic approach to social media content, mixing professional updates with personal moments, has created a strong connection with fans.
Platform | Handle | Followers | Content Type |
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@rohitsaraf | 3.2 million followers | Behind-scenes, fitness, pet photos | |
Twitter/X | Not actively maintained | Limited presence | Occasional updates |
Official fan page | 800k likes | Professional updates | |
YouTube | Guest appearances | Various channels | Interviews, promotional content |
His Instagram strategy focuses on authenticity over perfection. Posts featuring his dogs, Rudy and Pishu, consistently receive the highest engagement, while fitness transformation content inspired many fans to pursue their own health journeys. His workout videos and progress photos became motivational content for thousands of followers.
Fan engagement extends beyond likes and comments to creative expressions like fan art, memes, and tribute videos. The "Rohit Saraf Effect" became a social media phenomenon post-Mismatched, with fans recreating his character's style and mannerisms. This organic fan content amplifies his reach without additional marketing spend.
Rohit Saraf was born on December 8, 1996, and is currently 28 years old as of 2025. He was born in Kathmandu, Nepal, to Indian parents.
Rohit Saraf stands 5'9" (175 cm) tall and weighs approximately 70-75 kg, depending on his role requirements. He recently underwent a significant fitness transformation.
Rohit Saraf is currently unmarried and single. He prefers to keep his personal relationships private and focuses primarily on his career and family responsibilities.
Rohit comes from a middle-class family. His father, Suresh Saraf, passed away when Rohit was 15, and his mother, Anita Saraf, has been his biggest support. He has three siblings - Ankit Saraf, Swati Saraf Agarwal, and Megha Saraf.
Rohit was born in Kathmandu, Nepal, but moved to Mumbai, India, at age 15 after his father's death to pursue acting and support his family.
Rohit is fluent in Hindi, English, and Nepali. This multilingual ability has helped him in diverse projects, including international films.
Rohit completed his schooling at St. Francis D'Assisi High School in Mumbai and graduated with an Arts degree from St. Xavier's College, Mumbai.
Rohit began with television, debuting in "Best Friends Forever?" on Channel V in 2012. His film debut came in 2016 with Shah Rukh Khan's "Dear Zindagi," which opened doors to bigger opportunities.
His biggest successes include "Dear Zindagi," "The Sky Is Pink," "Ludo," and the Netflix series "Mismatched." The latter made him the "National Crush" and significantly boosted his popularity.
Rohit is working on "Thug Life" and "Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari," along with a secret Netflix project scheduled for 2026. Details about most projects remain under wraps.
Rohit reportedly charges ₹2-3 crores per film for leading roles, while OTT projects command ₹50 lakhs to ₹1 crore per series, depending on the platform and role prominence.
Yes, Rohit appeared in the Norwegian film "What Will People Say" (2017), which was selected as Norway's entry for the 91st Academy Awards, showcasing his international appeal.
His authentic social media presence, relatable characters, boy-next-door charm, and roles in content that addresses contemporary youth issues make him particularly popular with younger audiences.
As of 2025, Rohit Saraf's estimated net worth is $3 million (₹25 crores), earned through films, OTT projects, brand endorsements, and smart investments.
Rohit owns a BMW 3 Series worth approximately ₹45 lakhs and a Honda City worth ₹15 lakhs. His vehicle choices reflect practical luxury rather than ostentatious display.
Rohit lives in a well-appointed apartment in Mumbai's suburban areas, estimated to be worth ₹5-7 crores. The location provides easy access to film studios and production houses.
Rohit endorses various lifestyle, fashion, and tech brands targeting young demographics. He charges ₹20-30 lakhs per endorsement deal and is selective about brand partnerships.
His spending priorities include family support, fitness and health, animal welfare causes, and career development. He maintains a modest lifestyle despite his success.
Rohit enjoys dancing (he's trained in Kathak), fitness training, traveling, reading, and spending time with his pets. He's also passionate about animal welfare.
Yes, Rohit has two dogs named Rudy and Pishu. He frequently features them on social media and is a strong advocate for pet adoption and animal welfare.
Rohit follows a structured fitness regimen including weight training, cardio, and functional fitness. His recent 12-month transformation for "Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari" gained significant media attention.
Rohit maintains a healthy lifestyle with no smoking or drinking. He follows a balanced diet to support his fitness goals and prefers home-cooked meals when possible.
Rohit actively supports animal welfare, education for underprivileged youth, and environmental causes. He volunteers at animal shelters and quietly supports scholarship programs.
Rohit's major recognitions include Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 (2025), The Times Most Desirable Men No. 39 (2020), and various fan-voted awards for his performances in films and web series.
His inclusion in Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 recognizes his impact on entertainment, successful transition from television to films and OTT, and influence on youth culture through authentic performances.
His breakthrough role in Netflix's "Mismatched" is considered his biggest achievement, as it established him as a leading man and earned him the "National Crush" title among Gen-Z audiences.
Rohit's official Instagram handle is @rohitsaraf with over 3.2 million followers. He shares behind-the-scenes content, fitness updates, and moments with his pets.
Across all platforms, Rohit has over 4 million combined followers. His Instagram engagement rates often outperform many established stars, making him valuable for brand partnerships.
Rohit maintains a clean public image with no major controversies. He's known for his professionalism, humility, and positive attitude, which has earned him respect in the industry.
After "Mismatched," fans and media dubbed Rohit the "National Crush" due to his charming portrayal of Rishi Shekhawat and his relatable, boy-next-door appeal that resonated with young audiences.
Rohit represents the new generation of Bollywood actors who seamlessly work across films, OTT platforms, and international projects, appealing to both domestic and global audiences.
Rohit maintains professional relationships with co-stars and is particularly grateful to Alia Bhatt for her support during "Dear Zindagi." He's known for his collaborative approach on sets.
His multicultural background gives him a unique perspective that appeals to diverse audiences, and his experience of migration and adaptation resonates with diaspora communities globally.
His work in international films, English fluency, contemporary style, and roles in globally accessible content on platforms like Netflix make him appealing to international viewers discovering Indian content.
Rohit aims to continue growing as a versatile actor, taking on challenging roles across different genres and platforms while potentially exploring production and direction in the future.
OTT platforms have been crucial to his success, providing opportunities for substantial roles and direct audience connection. His "Mismatched" success opened doors to more significant projects.
Rohit gravitates toward authentic, relatable characters that allow him to showcase emotional depth. He prefers roles that resonate with contemporary audiences while maintaining artistic integrity.
He strategically chooses a mix of commercial entertainers and content-driven projects, ensuring both box office appeal and critical recognition while building a diverse filmography.
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