Ravi Kishan, known for his boundless energy and versatility, stands as a true icon in Indian entertainment, politics, and television, especially for his transformative journey on Bigg Boss and his impactful public life.
Early Life and Background
Born on July 17, 1969, in Mumbai, Ravi Kishan’s childhood was marked by significant struggles. His family, which originally ran a dairy business, later moved to Uttar Pradesh due to financial hurdles. Living in a chawl and facing disputes, he experienced the rigours of lower-middle-class existence. At seventeen, driven by dreams and grit, he fled to Mumbai with just ₹500, setting out to chase stardom.
Key Details:
Bollywood and Bhojpuri Stardom
Ravi Kishan’s career in Indian cinema began with “Pitambar” (1992), launching a prolific career spanning more than 750 films in Hindi, Bhojpuri, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. Notable Bollywood projects include:
In Bhojpuri cinema, his influence is legendary, credited with popularising the genre through blockbusters like “Saiyaan Hamar,” “Raja Bhojpuriya,” “Banke Biharee MLA,” and “Satyamev Jayate”. His chemistry with many co-stars, especially Nagma, marked a golden era for Bhojpuri films.
TV Personality and Reality Shows
Beyond the big screen, Ravi Kishan became a household name through television. He participated in reality shows such as “Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa” and “Bigg Boss” (Season 1), and hosted programs like “Bathroom Singer,” “Ek Se Badhkar Ek,” and “Raaz Pichhle Janam Ka”. His fan-favourite presence helped bridge regional stars into the mainstream.
The Bigg Boss Journey: Inside India’s Iconic Reality Show
Ravi Kishan’s Bigg Boss journey is widely hailed as one of the most remarkable in the show’s history. Entering Season 1, Kishan quickly became both a fan favourite and a central figure in the house, displaying intellect, wit, and an ability to mediate disputes. He describes the initial trepidation and isolation, even considering escape by attempting to break the roof, fearing that his career might be over.
His wife played a pivotal part, “locking” him up for three months, believing he was being consumed by arrogance after newfound fame. Kishan used the opportunity for self-reflection: “In Bigg Boss, one day feels like a week… By the end, I came out a sorted person.” He credits the experience with giving him clarity about his relationships, priorities, and identity. This turning point led to critical career breakthroughs and a transformation in his public image, catapulting him to further Bollywood success and into politics.
During Bigg Boss, Ravi formed strong bonds with housemates and learned valuable lessons about human nature, conflict, and resilience. His journey was not just about surviving eviction rounds, but about evolving in front of millions. He remained uneliminated for months, his popularity soaring outside the show, cementing his legacy with fans and industry insiders alike.
Having recently returned to host a segment on Bigg Boss Season 18, Kishan offers wisdom to new contestants, reminding them of the show’s power to shape lives. He emphasises the importance of maintaining authenticity and cherishing the “inner child” even amidst intense competition.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Ravi Kishan is married to Priti, and together they have four children: three daughters and a son. His wife stands as his pillar of support, steering him through turbulent phases, such as when she encouraged his Bigg Boss participation during a critical period in his career.
Political Ascent and Social Stance
A prominent BJP Member of Parliament representing Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, Ravi Kishan, has become a powerful voice on national and regional issues. He often uses his celebrity status to champion causes such as education, clean governance, and Bihar’s development. Notably, he made an emotional appeal urging parents to educate youth about Bihar’s dark past and praise the transformation under the NDA governments.
Kishan is known for defending political leaders like Nitish Kumar with heartfelt comparisons, advocating for honesty, energy, and commitment in governance. He speaks out against caste politics and pushes for unity and progress, aligning with the “double-engine government” vision promoted by the BJP.
The actor-politician remains fearless in his opinions, whether defending culture or criticising defamation against Bhojpuri cinema. His support for traditional values and candid statements on platforms like YouTube and Instagram resonate widely.
Contribution to Entertainment: Beyond Acting
Ravi Kishan’s reach goes beyond acting. He is credited with:
- Dubbing Spider-Man 3 into Bhojpuri, connecting Hollywood with local dialect audiences.
- Hosting numerous reality television programs, fostering raw talent.
- Regularly featuring in Bollywood, Bhojpuri, and even South Indian cinema.
- Promoting culture through TV, social campaigns, and interviews.
His impact is visible in how Bhojpuri cinema transitioned into the mainstream and in how regional artists now aspire to reach wider audiences.
Recent News and Projects
As of 2025, Ravi Kishan remains active both in entertainment and politics. He starred in Netflix’s “Mamla Legal Hai,” appeared in “Laapataa Ladies,” and is set to appear in “Son of Sardar 2”. His candid appearances on talk shows and segments in Bigg Boss 18 reflect his ongoing relevance and adaptability.
He is also vocal about the state of Bhojpuri cinema, lamenting its decline due to defamation by “anti-Sanatanis,” and calls for pride in cultural heritage. Kishan’s passionate defence of leaders and his criticism of manipulative media narratives highlight his commitment to truth and progress.
His social media engagement and open conversations with celebrities and youth make him a relatable figure, inspiring change at the grassroots level.
Ravi Kishan: Legacy and Impact
Ravi Kishan’s journey can be summed up as transformational. From humble beginnings to stardom, from self-doubt in the Bigg Boss house to renewed clarity and strength, he has left an indelible mark across entertainment and politics. He remains an inspiration for aspiring actors, reality TV contestants, and public leaders, reinforcing the message that resilience, authenticity, and cultural pride lead to true success.
As a reformist, advocate for progress, and a symbol of unity, Ravi Kishan’s story continues to inspire millions. His journey through Bigg Boss was not just about reality television but about the reality of personal evolution under scrutiny and adversity.
