Skip to main content

Anjana Om Kashyap: Profile, Husband, Daughter and Caste




Anjana Om Kashyap is a name synonymous with fearless journalism and commanding presence in Indian media. As a prominent news anchor and Managing Editor at Aaj Tak, one of India’s leading Hindi news channels, she has carved a niche for herself in the competitive world of television journalism. Known for her incisive debates, bold reporting, and unrelenting pursuit of truth, Anjana Om Kashyap’s biography is a testament to resilience, determination, and excellence.
Early Life and Background of Anjana Om Kashyap
Born on June 12, 1975, in Ranchi, Jharkhand (then part of Bihar), Anjana Om Kashyap hails from a middle-class family rooted in traditional values. Her father, Dr. Om Prakash Tiwari, was a doctor who served in the Indian Army on a short-service commission during the Bangladesh War of Liberation. This military background instilled discipline and a sense of duty in Anjana from a young age. Her mother, hailing from Bihar Sharif, Nalanda, complemented the family’s strong Bihari heritage, with Anjana belonging to the Bhumihar Brahmin community.
Growing up in Ranchi, Anjana attended Loreto Convent School, where her leadership qualities shone early. She later moved to Delhi Public School, Ranchi, and continued to excel, eventually becoming head-girl at both institutions. These formative years laid the groundwork for her confident persona, which would later define her as an Aaj Tak news anchor. Anjana’s early life reflects a blend of academic rigor and extracurricular prowess, setting the stage for her multifaceted career.
Education: From Botany to Journalism
Anjana Om Kashyap’s educational journey is as diverse as her career. Initially aspiring to become a doctor, she appeared for the All India Pre-Medical Test (AIPMT) but couldn’t clear it. Undeterred, she shifted gears and enrolled at the University of Delhi, where she pursued a Bachelor’s degree with honors in Botany from Daulat Ram College. Her academic curiosity didn’t stop there—she later pursued a Master’s in Social Work from the Delhi School of Social Work, igniting her passion for public service.
While preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, Anjana reached the interview stage twice but couldn’t secure a spot. This period of struggle, however, enriched her understanding of national and international issues, fueling her interest in journalism. She then pursued a Diploma in Journalism from Jamia Millia Islamia in the early 2000s, a pivotal decision that launched her into the world of media. Anjana Om Kashyap’s education showcases her adaptability and determination—qualities that have made her a standout Indian journalist.
Family and Personal Life
Anjana Om Kashyap’s personal life is as inspiring as her professional one. She is married to Mangesh Kashyap, an IPS officer of the 1995 Delhi, Andaman, and Nicobar Islands Police Service cadre. The couple met during their time at Delhi University, forging a bond rooted in mutual respect and ambition. Mangesh has held significant roles, including Additional Deputy Commissioner of Delhi Police and, since 2016, Chief Vigilance Officer of the South Delhi Municipal Corporation. Together, they have two children—a son and a daughter—whose privacy Anjana fiercely protects, keeping them away from the media spotlight.


Her family life reflects a balance of tradition and modernity, with Anjana often citing her husband’s support as a pillar of her success. This personal stability has allowed her to thrive as a news anchor, managing the demands of a high-profile career while nurturing her family.
Journalism Career: From Doordarshan to Aaj Tak
Anjana Om Kashyap’s journalism career began in 2003 with Doordarshan, India’s public broadcaster, where she worked on the investigative show Aankhon Dekhi. This stint introduced her to newsroom dynamics and fieldwork, sharpening her skills as a storyteller. Within a year, she joined Zee News, initially in a production role due to perceived limitations in her on-air finesse. However, her persistence paid off—she passed auditions in her later years at Zee and began anchoring special features.
In 2007, Anjana moved to News 24, where she found her stride as a mainstream anchor, moderating the popular evening debate show Do Tuk. Her neutral yet probing style earned her widespread recognition. After a brief stint at Star News (which shut down in 2012), she joined Aaj Tak later that year, following her former News 24 boss, Supriya Prasad. At Aaj Tak, Anjana Om Kashyap became a household name, hosting iconic shows like Halla Bol, Rajtilak, and Dilli Ke Dil Mein Kya Hai. Her role as Managing Editor underscores her influence in shaping Hindi news television.
Signature Shows and Reporting Style
Anjana Om Kashyap’s shows are known for their fiery debates and hard-hitting questions. Halla Bol, her flagship program on Aaj Tak, epitomizes her aggressive yet insightful approach, tackling socio-political issues with gusto. Her coverage of major events—like the 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape case, where she reported on Delhi’s safety concerns—demonstrates her commitment to ground reporting. Anjana’s ability to blend studio anchoring with fieldwork has made her a versatile Indian journalist.
Her style, often described as fierce and unapologetic, has earned her both praise and criticism. She’s unafraid to put panelists on the spot, a trait that resonates with viewers seeking accountability from public figures. This distinctive approach has solidified her reputation as one of India’s top news anchors.
Awards and Achievements
Anjana Om Kashyap’s contributions to journalism have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades, including:
  • Best Anchor by ITA (2014): Recognizing her excellence in television anchoring.
  • Best Anchor by ENBA Awards (2015): Honoring her impactful presence in news media.
  • Best Anchor by IMWA Awards (2015): A testament to her influence in the industry.
  • National Television Award for Best Reporter: Celebrating her groundbreaking fieldwork.
  • India Today Excellence Award: Highlighting her role in advancing journalism.
These awards reflect her status as a trailblazer in Hindi news television, inspiring countless aspiring journalists across India.
Controversies: A Polarizing Figure
Anjana Om Kashyap’s career hasn’t been without controversy. In 2019, while covering the Bihar encephalitis outbreak, she entered the neonatal ICU at Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital, confronting an on-duty pediatrician. Her actions drew widespread criticism for endangering vulnerable patients, prompting the Indian Medical Association to file a complaint. Critics accused her of prioritizing sensationalism over ethics.
Her vocal stance against reservations in India, rooted in her Brahminical upbringing and experiences during the Mandal Commission era, has also sparked debate. She once likened the reservation system to “termites,” a statement that fueled accusations of bias. Additionally, outlets like The Caravan and Scroll.in have critiqued her for allegedly promoting Hindutva ideologies and favoring the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), especially evident in her coverage of the 2019 Ayodhya dispute and her exclusive interview with Narendra Modi ahead of the national elections.
Despite the polarizing views, Anjana remains a significant voice in Indian media, undeterred by detractors.
Net Worth and Salary
While exact figures vary, Anjana Om Kashyap’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of INR 7-10 crore as of 2025, reflecting her long and successful career. Reports suggest her annual salary at Aaj Tak exceeds INR 1 crore, making her one of the highest-paid news anchors in India. Her earnings stem from her anchoring role, editorial responsibilities, and occasional Bollywood cameos in films like Sultan (2016), Tiger Zinda Hai (2017), and Chhapaak (2020).
Impact and Legacy in Indian Journalism
Anjana Om Kashyap’s journey from a small-town girl to a leading Aaj Tak news anchor is a story of grit and perseverance. She has redefined Hindi news television with her commanding presence and fearless commentary, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. Her work with NGOs, including efforts for child rape victims and resettlement colonies, highlights her commitment to social causes beyond the screen.
As of February 20, 2025, Anjana continues to shape public discourse, leveraging her platform to address pressing issues. Her introduction of an AI avatar for live anchoring marks her as an innovator, blending technology with traditional journalism. For young women aspiring to enter media, Anjana Om Kashyap’s biography serves as a beacon of inspiration, proving that resilience and passion can overcome any obstacle.
Conclusion
Anjana Om Kashyap’s life and career encapsulate the essence of modern Indian journalism—bold, dynamic, and impactful. From her humble beginnings in Ranchi to her commanding role at Aaj Tak, she has navigated challenges with unwavering resolve. Whether you admire her tenacity or critique her style, there’s no denying her influence. As she continues to evolve, Anjana remains a pivotal figure in shaping how India consumes news, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Devbrat Mahesh Rekhe: Biography, Profile, Age and Family

Devbrat Mahesh Rekhe is a young and prodigious Vedamurti (Vedic scholar) from Maharashtra, India, known for his extraordinary memorization and recitation of the Vedic scriptures. At just 19 years old, he has gained wide recognition for completing the Dandakrama Parayanam—an extensive sacred recitation of 2,000 mantras from the Shukla Yajurveda’s Madhyandini branch—in 50 consecutive days without interruption. His dedication to mastering the ancient texts embodies the essence of India’s guru-shishya parampara (teacher-student tradition) and the preservation of Vedic knowledge. Career and Achievements Devbrat Mahesh Rekhe’s career is marked primarily by his achievements as a Vedic scholar and practitioner. Hailing from Maharashtra, he has been involved in deep Vedic studies since a young age and has quickly risen as a notable figure in the Vedic community. His solo performance of the Shukla Yajurveda Madhyandina Shakha recitation from memory showcases a rare level of Vedic mastery and d...

Arzoo Kazmi, Journalist: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Arzoo Kazmi is a prominent journalist and human rights advocate from Pakistan, known for incisive political analysis and fearless reporting. Over the years, she has covered sensitive topics—from constitutional reforms to national security—and has been embroiled in controversies that highlight issues of press freedom and state pressure. Early Life & Education Background : Born in Pakistan, Arzoo developed a keen interest in journalism and public affairs early on. Education : Attended top journalism institutions (specifics kept private), where she honed her writing, analysis, and investigative skills. Entry into Media : Began as a researcher before quickly transitioning to on-screen reporting, earning respect for her clarity on constitutional and geopolitical matters. Career & Professional Highlights Rise as a Political Journalist Television & Digital Presence : Regularly appears on Pakistani and international news networks. She provides commentary on constitution...

C K Anil, IAS: Complete Profile and Biography

Chandrakant Kumar Anil, commonly known as C.K. Anil , is a prominent Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 1990 batch of the Bihar cadre . Over the years, he has held several significant administrative positions, including serving as the District Magistrate of Siwan and as Officer on Special Duty at the Bihar Staff Selection Commission (BSSC). His tenure has been marked by both commendable achievements and notable controversies. Early Life and Education C.K. Anil hails from Bihar, where he completed his early education. He pursued higher studies at the University of Delhi , earning a degree in History. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors in the civil services. Career Highlights District Magistrate of Siwan As the District Magistrate of Siwan, C.K. Anil gained recognition for his proactive approach to governance and his efforts to maintain law and order in a region that had been historically challenged by criminal activities. His ten...

Rohini Singh, Journalist: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Rohini Singh is a well-known Indian journalist and columnist recognized for her investigative reporting and critical commentary on political and social issues. With a career spanning multiple media outlets, Singh has gained prominence for her fearless journalism, often focusing on the intersection of politics, business, and governance in India. Her work, particularly with The Wire , has made her a polarizing figure, admired by some for her tenacity and criticized by others for alleged bias. Early Life and Education Rohini Singh was born in India, though specific details about her birth date and place remain largely private. Raised in a family with political connections, Singh’s background provided her with an early understanding of the dynamics of power and influence in India. Her sister reportedly contested an election in Bihar on a Congress ticket, indicating a familial link to politics that may have shaped her perspective on governance and public policy. Singh pursued her education ...

Tina Dabi and Reservation Controversy

Tina Dabi is the UPSC Civil Services 2015 topper. She secured All India Rank 1 at the age of 22 years. Naturally, she deserves all appreciation, and young girls throughout India are seeing to her as their role model. There is another fact which makes this success even more satisfying; her being an SC/Dalit. Many, including a BJP MP, has congratulated her and quoted Napolean where he had said that ‘ability is nothing without opportunity’. True and hence this success story of a young girl must be admired. But, there is another case. Tina has obviously used her constitutional right of reservation. With the help of reservation, today she is an IAS. There is nothing wrong in this. People who are criticizing her should also note the fact that she has done exceptionally well in the Main – Written – Examination. She did sail through the Preliminary because of reservation. In the written examination, her marks was way ahead than that of second rank holder, who is now her husband. An...

P. Mounika, IPS: Profile, Bio, Age, Caste, Husband and Family

Introduction P. Mounika, IPS stands as a compelling emblem of resilience, public service, and commitment. A member of the 2022 IPS batch in the Telangana cadre, she has swiftly carved her niche in the elite Greyhounds unit before taking on critical roles as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) across districts. Her story captivates not just as a career profile, but as an inspiring narrative—from initial struggles to professional impact and personal growth. Early Life & Education P. Mounika emerged from Telangana, born on 15 March 1988 , and belongs to the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category ( ips.gov.in ). Before entering the civil services, she pursued a degree in Pharmacology —a background that nurtured her scientific temperament and analytical thinking ( The BuckStopper ). Her journey to the Indian Police Service was far from easy. Mounika cleared the Civil Services Examination in her sixth attempt , mirroring the pattern of perseverance seen in exceptional aspirants ( The ...

Nishant Kumar, Nitish' Son: Wiki, Age, Wife and Education Details

Name: Nishant Kumar Birthdate: July 20, 1981/82 (turned 44 on July 20, 2025) ( The Indian Express ) Parentage: Son of Nitish Kumar , 9‑term Chief Minister of Bihar, and the late Manju Sinha Education: Engineering graduate—studied software engineering at Birla Institute of Technology ( The Indian Express , Hindustan Times ) Background: Grew up under the public spotlight of his father's long political career. Raised outside active politics, he later made occasional public appearances, emphasizing spiritual reflection before more overt political leanings. ✅ Career & Personal Life Early Life & Education: Nishant completed his engineering degree and kept a low profile while living in Patna. Spiritual Inclination: Previously described himself as following a “spiritual path,” consciously avoiding politics ( Hindustan Times ). Family Bonds: Since his mother’s death in 2007, he’s upheld a birthday tradition of visiting Mahavir Mandir in Patna to remember her...

Medha Roopam, IAS: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Introduction: Breaking Glass Ceilings in Noida Medha Roopam, a 2014-batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has etched her name in history as Noida’s first-ever woman District Magistrate (DM) . Appointed amidst a significant administrative reshuffle, she now leads the governance of Gautam Buddh Nagar district—a region pivotal to Uttar Pradesh’s growth narrative ( The Times of India , mint ). Her appointment signals not just administrative progress, but also a leap toward gender representation in high-stakes urban leadership. Early Life & Academic Journey Roots in Agra : Born on October 21, 1990 , in Agra, Medha’s early life was shaped both by her hometown and her formative schooling years in Kerala where her father served ( The Indian Express , Indian Masterminds ). Shooting Champion in Kerala : In Kerala, she discovered her talent in shooting. A national-level rifle shooter , she won three gold medals and even held the state record in the 10 m air rifle event ( The In...

Santosh Verma, IAS MP: Biography, Wiki, Caste, Wife and Family

Santosh Verma is an IAS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, batch of 2012, born on March 6, 1970. He has held positions like Deputy Secretary in his career. However, his career has been marred by controversies including allegations of forging court orders to secure his promotion to IAS cadre, and multiple accusations related to personal conduct involving women. Recently, as of 2025, he holds a significant role as the provincial president of the AJAKS organization for Scheduled Castes and Tribes employees in Madhya Pradesh, but continues to attract controversy for some of his public remarks. Career Trajectory Santosh Verma belongs to the 2012 batch of the IAS from the Madhya Pradesh cadre. His initial postings included various administrative roles at the deputy secretary level. His career was expected to progress normally, but it took a turn when he allegedly forged two court verdicts with fake signatures of a judge to claim acquittal in a pending criminal intimidation case against...