Kunal Khemu is a well-known actor in Hindi cinema, admired for his versatility, natural acting skills, and sharp comic timing. Over the years, he has successfully reinvented himself — from a popular child artist of the 1990s to a dependable actor in both serious and comic roles, and most recently, an award-winning director. His journey is not just about fame, but about consistency, learning, and evolving with time.
Many fans believe that Kunal Khemu is one of the most underrated talents in Bollywood. Instead of chasing stardom, he focused on meaningful roles and long-term growth, which ultimately helped him earn respect from audiences and critics alike.
Early Life and Family Background
Kunal Khemu was born on 25 May 1983 in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir into a Kashmiri Pandit family with ties to art and culture. His father, Ravi Kemmu is an actor and filmmaker associated with renowned director Shyam Benegal and his mother, Jyoti Kemmu is an actress well. Being raised in this atmosphere naturally influenced Kunal’s passion, for acting.
He has a sister called Karishma Khemu. His grandfather, Moti Lal Kemmu was a Kashmiri dramatist and was honored with both the Sahitya Akademi Award and the Padma Shri underscoring the family’s rich heritage, in literature and the arts.
Kunal grew up in Srinagar. Attended Burn Hall School during his early years. Nevertheless the Kashmir insurgency of the 1990s compelled his family to move. Initially they relocated to Jammu. Eventually made Mumbai their home, where Kunal finished his education at N. L. Dalmia High School, Mira Road. He then went on to graduate from Narsee Monjee College of Commerce and Economics Mumbai.
Career Beginning as a Child Actor
Kunal Khemu began his acting career early with the Doordarshan TV show Gul Gulshan Gulfaam (1987). His assured presence on screen quickly drew the interest of filmmakers. In 1993 he appeared for the time as a child actor, in Mahesh Bhatt’s movie Sir.
Throughout the 1990s Kunal emerged as one of Bollywoods familiar child artists. He featured in hit movies including Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Raja Hindustani, Zakhm, Dushman and Bhai. His acting was praised for its intensity and sophistication qualities uncommon, for performers his age.
When he was 14 Kunal deliberately chose to take a break from movies to concentrate on his studies. Throughout this time he actively engaged in theater. Earned several accolades, for his stage acting, which contributed to refining his acting abilities.
Entry into Lead Roles
Following his pursuits Kunal returned strongly as a protagonist, in Kalyug (2005) helmed by Mohit Suri. The movie delved into the realm of the pornography sector and featured Kunal in a demanding and intense portrayal. His acting received acclaim and demonstrated that he had effectively shifted from a child performer to a mature lead actor.
In 2007 he featured in Traffic Signal, a film directed by Madhur Bhandarkar portraying a street moneylender. That year his humorous character in Dhol showcased his remarkable wit and timing earning him popularity, with a broader audience.
Rise with Comedy and Cult Films
Kunal kept exploring genres by working on movies such, as Superstar (2008) 99 (2009) Dhoondte Reh Jaaoge and Jai Veeru. Nonetheless his significant breakthrough arrived with Golmaal 3 (2010) in which he portrayed the expressive character Laxman. The movie was a hit and his role turned into one of the franchises most cherished figures.
In 2013 Kunal featured in Go Goa Gone, India’s zombie comedy. Gradually the movie gained a cult following because of its distinctive idea and quirky humour. Kunal’s portrayal enhanced the film’s appeal. Continues to be a beloved aspect, for fans even now.
Strong Performances and Critical Acclaim
Kunal struck a balance, between mainstream movies and narrative-focused films. He starred in Blood Money (2012) Bhaag Johnny (2015) and Guddu Ki Gun (2015). In Golmaal Again (2017) he returned to his character Laxman and the movie more proved to be a box-office hit.
He earned praise from critics for his performances in Kalank (2019) Malang (2020). Portraying the antagonist Michael Rodrigues. And Lootcase (2020) as Nandan Kumar. These roles demonstrated his skill, in managing atypical characters effortlessly.
Directorial Success with Madgaon Express
In 2024 Kunal Khemu made a career move by debuting as a director with the comedy Madgaon Express. The movie gained feedback from audiences and critics alike for its innovative narrative and comedy. Numerous industry experts commended Kunal’s assurance, in his role as a first-time filmmaker.
He received the IIFA Award and Filmfare Award for Best Debut Director for his work signifying a beginning, in his artistic career.
Personal Life
Since 2009 Kunal Khemu has been romantically involved with actress Soha Ali Khan. They tied the knot on 25 January 2015 during an event, in Mumbai. This union brought Kunal into the Pataudi lineage. The pair celebrated the birth of their daughter Inaaya Naumi Khemu, in 2017.
Lifestyle, Interests, and Lesser-Known Facts
Kunal likes exploring places and preparing food during his leisure time. He is also very passionate about music and creative writing. He bears tattoos honoring Lord Shiva symbolizing his faith. If he weren’t an actor he has frequently mentioned that he would have chosen a path, in music or writing.
Kunal, whose net worth is $3 million prioritizes producing high-quality work instead of seeking continual attention.
Kunal Khemu’s journey in Bollywood is a story of patience, reinvention, and passion. From a successful child actor to a respected performer and now a celebrated director, he has continuously evolved with time. His career serves as an inspiration for artists who believe in steady growth and meaningful cinema rather than overnight success.
Below is a quick profile table of Kunal Khemu for readers who want factual information at a glance.
Personal & Professional Profile
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Kunal Kemmu |
| Nickname | Chotu |
| Date of Birth | 25 May 1983 (Wednesday) |
| Age (as of 2025) | 42 Years |
| Birthplace | Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Caste | Brahmin (Kashmiri Pandit) |
| Hometown | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Current Residence | Khar, Mumbai |
| Profession | Actor, Director, Singer-Composer |
Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Measurement |
| Height | 168 cm / 1.68 m / 5’6” |
| Weight | 65 kg / 143 lbs |
| Eye Colour | Dark Brown |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| Body Measurements | Chest: 40 in, Waist: 30 in, Biceps: 15 in |
Education
| Level | Institution |
| School | N. L. Dalmia High School, Mira Road, Mumbai |
| College | Narsee Monjee College of Commerce & Economics, Mumbai |
| Qualification | Graduation |
Career Highlights
| Category | Details |
| TV Debut | Gul Gulshan Gulfaam (1987) |
| Film Debut (Child Actor) | Sir (1993) |
| Debut as Lead Actor | Kalyug (2005) |
| Directorial Debut | Madgaon Express (2024) |
| Famous Films | Golmaal Series, Kalyug, Dhol, Go Goa Gone, Lootcase, Malang, Traffic Signal, Kanjoos Makhichoos |
| Popular Roles | Laxman (Golmaal), Michael Rodrigues (Malang), Nandan Kumar (Lootcase) |
| Genres Worked In | Comedy, Thriller, Drama, Romance, Dark Cinema |
Awards & Achievements
| Award | Film |
| IIFA Award – Best Directorial Debut | Madgaon Express |
| Filmfare Award – Best Debut Director | Madgaon Express |
| Other Recognition | Critical acclaim for Malang, Lootcase, Go Goa Gone |
Family Details
| Relation | Name |
| Father | Ravi Kemmu (Actor) |
| Mother | Jyoti Kemmu (Actor) |
| Sister | Karishma Khemu |
| Grandfather | Moti Lal Kemmu (Playwright, Padma Shri Awardee) |
| Father-in-Law | Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi |
| Mother-in-Law | Sharmila Tagore |
| Brother-in-Law | Saif Ali Khan |
| Sister-in-Law | Kareena Kapoor Khan |
Personal Life
| Detail | Information |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife | Soha Ali Khan (m. 2015–Present) |
| Children | Daughter – Inaaya Naumi Khemu |
| Marriage Date | 25 January 2015 |
Lifestyle & Interests
| Category | Details |
| Hobbies | Travelling, Cooking |
| Food Habit | Non-Vegetarian |
| Tattoos | Lord Shiva (Leg), Om Namah Shivaya (Back) |
| Favourite Colour | Black |
| Favourite Actors | Ajay Devgn, Johnny Depp |
| Favourite Actress | Kareena Kapoor |
| Favourite Sports | Cricket, Football |
| Favourite Destinations | London, Greece |
Vehicles & Net Worth
| Category | Details |
| Car Collection | Volkswagen Touareg |
| Bike Collection | MV Agusta 1090 |
| Salary (Approx.) | ₹1–2 crore per film |
| Net Worth (Approx.) | $3 Million |