Saurabh Shukla Biography: Height, Weight, Age, Family, Career, Wife, Net Worth & More
Saurabh Shukla is a renowned Indian actor, screenwriter, and director, celebrated for his versatile roles in Bollywood cinema and theater. Known for his powerful performances in films like Satya, Barfi!, and Jolly LLB, Shukla has left an indelible mark on Indian entertainment. His unique blend of humor and gravitas continues to captivate audiences across India and beyond.

Quick Facts
Full Name | Saurabh Shukla |
---|---|
Profession / Occupation | Actor, Screenwriter, Director |
Birth Date | 5 March 1963 |
Age | 62 years (as of 2025) |
Birth Place | Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India |
Nationality | Indian |
Famous For | Versatile acting in Hindi films |
Known For | Satya, Jolly LLB, Barfi!, Courtroom dramas |
Ethnicity | Indian |
Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
Height & Weight | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm), 85 kg (approx.) |
Hair Color | Black (graying) |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Education | Graduated from Khalsa College, Delhi University |
Religion | Hinduism |
Marital Status/Spouse | Married to Shukla Barnali Ray |
Relationship | N/A |
Children | 1 son |
Relatives | N/A |
Hobbies | Writing, Traveling, Reading, Theatre |
Employer/Organization | Indian Film Industry, Theatre |
Years Active | 1984–present |
Net Worth (Estimated) | INR 25–30 crore (approx.) |
Early Life & Education
Saurabh Shukla was born on 5 March 1963 in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, into a family with a deep appreciation for the arts. His mother, Jogmaya Shukla, was a noted vocalist, which inspired his early interest in creative pursuits. The family later moved to Delhi, where Saurabh completed his schooling and attended Khalsa College, Delhi University. During his college years, he became actively involved in theater, which laid the foundation for his future career in acting and writing.
Career Journey
Saurabh Shukla’s career journey is a testament to his versatility and dedication to the craft of storytelling. From theater stages to the silver screen, his path is marked by memorable performances and creative milestones.
Theater Beginnings
Shukla began his artistic journey in the mid-1980s with Delhi’s vibrant theater circuit. He joined the Sakshi theatre group and quickly gained recognition for his powerful stage presence and nuanced performances. His experience in theater helped him hone his skills as both an actor and a writer.
Bollywood Breakthrough
In 1994, Saurabh Shukla made his film debut with Shekhar Kapur’s acclaimed movie Bandit Queen. However, it was his role as Kallu Mama in Ram Gopal Varma’s Satya (1998) that catapulted him to national fame. His portrayal of the gritty, memorable character became iconic and established him as a sought-after supporting actor in Hindi cinema.
Establishing a Niche
Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Shukla’s filmography expanded to include critically acclaimed films such as Barfi!, Jolly LLB, Jolly LLB 2, Yuva, PK, and Raid. He became particularly known for his comedic timing and impactful courtroom roles, especially as Justice Sunderlal Tripathi in the Jolly LLB series, a performance that won him the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2014.
Screenwriting and Direction
In addition to acting, Shukla has contributed as a screenwriter for films like Satya and Calcutta Mail. He has also directed movies such as Mudda: The Issue (2003) and Chehraa (2005). His multifaceted talent continues to influence both mainstream and parallel Indian cinema.
Recent Projects
As of 2025, Saurabh Shukla remains active in the industry, appearing in films, web series, and theater productions. His recent work includes roles in digital streaming projects and mentoring young actors in the Indian film fraternity.
Personal Life
Saurabh Shukla is married to Barnali Ray Shukla, a filmmaker and writer. The couple has a son and leads a relatively private life, away from the constant glare of the media. Shukla is known for his love of literature, travel, and theater, often attending cultural events and supporting new talent. He is also involved in community initiatives that promote arts and education.
Awards & Achievements
- National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor – Jolly LLB (2014)
- IIFA Award for Best Performance in a Comic Role – Barfi! (2013)
- Screen Award for Best Supporting Actor – Jolly LLB (2014)
- Multiple nominations for Filmfare and Zee Cine Awards
- Recognized for contributions to Indian theater and cinema
Physical Statistics
Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
---|---|
Weight | 85 kg (approx.) |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Hair Color | Black (graying) |
Body Type | Average |
Quotes
- “Acting is not about being noticed, it’s about being remembered.”
- “Theater taught me discipline and the importance of storytelling.”
- “Every character has a story, and it’s my job to tell it honestly.”
Controversies
Saurabh Shukla has maintained a largely controversy-free career. He is respected for his professionalism and rarely finds himself in the midst of public disputes or scandals. Any controversies have been minor and quickly resolved, reflecting his commitment to his craft and dignified public persona.
Favorites
- Favorite Actor: Naseeruddin Shah
- Favorite Actress: Smita Patil
- Favorite Movie: Satya
- Favorite Food: North Indian cuisine
- Favorite Book: Works by Rabindranath Tagore
- Favorite Destination: Himachal Pradesh
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, Saurabh Shukla’s estimated net worth is between INR 25–30 crore. His primary sources of income include acting fees from films, web series, and theater, as well as writing and directing projects. Industry reports suggest his per-film salary ranges from INR 50 lakh to 1 crore, depending on the project’s scale and his role.
Interesting Facts
- Saurabh Shukla started his career in Delhi’s theater circuit before moving to Mumbai.
- He co-wrote the screenplay for the critically acclaimed film Satya.
- He is a trained musician, influenced by his mother’s background in classical music.
- Shukla is known for mentoring young actors and writers in the industry.
- He has appeared in over 90 films and several popular web series.
Social Media Links
- Facebook: SaurabhShuklaOfficial
- Twitter/X: @shukla_saurabh
- Instagram: @saurabhshukla_
- LinkedIn: Saurabh Shukla
Frequently Asked Questions
- How old is Saurabh Shukla in 2025?
He is 62 years old as of 2025. - What is Saurabh Shukla famous for?
He is famous for his versatile roles in films like Satya, Jolly LLB, and Barfi!. - Who is Saurabh Shukla’s wife?
He is married to filmmaker and writer Barnali Ray Shukla. - What are Saurabh Shukla’s major awards?
He has won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor and several other accolades. - What is Saurabh Shukla’s height?
He stands 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall. - Does Saurabh Shukla have children?
Yes, he has one son.
Conclusion
Saurabh Shukla’s journey from Delhi’s theater stages to the heights of Bollywood is a story of passion, perseverance, and talent. His contributions as an actor, writer, and director have enriched Indian cinema and inspired countless aspiring artists. If you enjoyed learning about Saurabh Shukla, feel free to share this biography with friends and fans!
Sources: The Hindu, Times of India, Indian Express, Filmfare, NDTV, IMDb