Skip to main content

Meenakshi Kandwal, Journalist: Profile, Bio, Husband and Family



Meenakshi Kandwal, a celebrated Indian journalist and news anchor, has become a household name through her dynamic presence in the Hindi news industry. Born on March 16, 1986, in Garhwal, Uttarakhand, Meenakshi hails from a region renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Growing up in a middle-class Hindu family, she was raised by her parents, Madan Lal Kandwal and Pushpa Kandwal, alongside her siblings—two brothers, Nitish and Prashant Kandwal, and a sister, Supriya Kandwal. Her early years in Uttarakhand instilled in her a deep appreciation for nature and a grounded perspective, traits that would later shine through in her journalistic career.
Meenakshi’s family moved to New Delhi during her childhood, where she spent much of her formative years. Raised in the capital city, she was exposed to a fast-paced urban environment that contrasted with her rural roots in Garhwal. This blend of experiences shaped her worldview, giving her a unique ability to connect with diverse audiences. From a young age, Meenakshi displayed a passion for storytelling, debating, and travel—interests that foreshadowed her eventual career in journalism. Her inquisitive nature and love for communication made her stand out among her peers, setting the stage for her remarkable journey.
Educational Journey
Meenakshi Kandwal’s academic path reflects her commitment to excellence and her desire to build a strong foundation for her career. She completed her schooling in Delhi, where she excelled in academics and extracurricular activities like debating and writing. Her early education nurtured her eloquence and analytical skills, qualities that would later define her as a news anchor.
She pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Vivekananda College, University of Delhi, showcasing her versatility and disciplined approach. However, her true calling lay in media and communication. To pursue this passion, Meenakshi enrolled at the Sri Aurobindo Centre for Arts and Communication in New Delhi, where she earned a Master’s degree in Mass Communication. This advanced training equipped her with the technical expertise and theoretical knowledge needed to thrive in the competitive world of journalism. Her education, combined with her innate curiosity, prepared her to take on the challenges of the media industry.
Entry into Journalism: The Star Anchor Hunt Breakthrough
Meenakshi Kandwal’s entry into journalism was nothing short of dramatic. In 2010, she participated in Star Anchor Hunt, a reality television competition organized by Star News (now ABP News) to discover fresh talent in news anchoring. At the age of 24, Meenakshi emerged as the winner on June 26, 2010, beating out numerous contenders with her poise, confidence, and command over language. This victory marked the beginning of her professional journey, thrusting her into the spotlight and opening doors to India’s leading newsrooms.
Following her win, Meenakshi joined Star News as a news anchor, where she spent two years honing her skills. Her time at Star News allowed her to cover a range of stories, from political developments to social issues, establishing her as a credible voice in Hindi journalism. Her fluent command of English, Hindi, and Garhwali languages gave her an edge, enabling her to connect with diverse viewers across India. This initial stint laid a solid foundation for her subsequent roles in bigger media houses.
Career Progression: India TV and Aaj Tak
In 2012, Meenakshi Kandwal took a significant step forward by joining India TV as a news anchor and special correspondent. During her three-year tenure, she tackled high-profile assignments and gained recognition for her in-depth reporting and engaging on-screen presence. Her work at India TV showcased her ability to handle breaking news and conduct insightful interviews, further solidifying her reputation in the industry.
The turning point in Meenakshi’s career came on July 17, 2015, when she joined Aaj Tak, one of India’s most-watched Hindi news channels under the India Today Group. Starting as an anchor and Associate Executive Producer, she quickly became a familiar face to millions of viewers. At Aaj Tak, Meenakshi hosted popular shows like Aaj Subah, a morning news program, Ek Aur Ek Gyarah, a discussion-based segment, and Viral Test, a weekend show exploring trending topics. Her gentle yet authoritative anchoring style, coupled with her deep understanding of issues, distinguished her from her peers.
Meenakshi’s versatility shone through as she covered major events, including the 2019 General Elections, the Indo-China bilateral meeting in Mahabalipuram, the Kartarpur Corridor inauguration, and the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. Her ground reports from remote Indian villages and her coverage of national events earned her widespread acclaim. In recognition of her team’s exceptional work on demonetization coverage, she received the ENBA Award for Best Team Coverage, a testament to her collaborative spirit and journalistic excellence.
Notable Contributions and Achievements
Meenakshi Kandwal’s career is marked by several standout moments that highlight her impact on Indian journalism. Her ability to present news with clarity and composure, even during chaotic events, has made her a trusted figure. Beyond anchoring, she has directed Aaj Tak’s prestigious annual events, such as Sahitya Aaj Tak, Agenda Aaj Tak, and Panchayat Aaj Tak. These events, blending literature, policy discussions, and grassroots perspectives, reflect her multifaceted talents in media production and management.
In 2019, Meenakshi appeared as an expert on Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 11 on Sony TV, showcasing her knowledge and charisma to a broader audience. Her contributions extend beyond the newsroom, as she has inspired countless young women to pursue careers in journalism. Her journey from a talent hunt winner to a leading anchor demonstrates the power of perseverance and skill in a competitive field.
Personal Life and Values
Meenakshi Kandwal married Amit Raina in 2018, a union that reflects her balance between personal and professional life. While she keeps details of her family private, her social media occasionally offers glimpses of her personal side—be it her love for travel or her devotion to Lord Shiva. A spiritual individual, Meenakshi enjoys visiting places of religious significance, finding solace amid her demanding career.
An avid dog lover, fitness enthusiast, and reader, Meenakshi embodies a well-rounded personality. Her hobbies include swimming, photography, and exploring new destinations, often sharing her adventures with followers. She has expressed that if not a journalist, she might have pursued a career as a travel blogger, storyteller, or motivational speaker—roles that align with her passions for communication and exploration.
Transition to Independence and Legacy
In November 2022, Meenakshi left Times Now Navbharat (after a brief stint following Aaj Tak) to embark on an independent journey as a journalist and YouTuber. Through her YouTube channel, she continues to provide insightful news coverage, maintaining her commitment to objective reporting. This transition reflects her adaptability to the digital age, where she engages directly with viewers beyond traditional television.
As of March 18, 2025, Meenakshi Kandwal remains a towering figure in Indian journalism. With an estimated net worth of around $4 million and a career spanning over a decade, she exemplifies resilience and innovation. Her legacy inspires aspiring journalists, particularly women, to break barriers and pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Why Meenakshi Kandwal Stands Out
Meenakshi Kandwal’s blend of talent, authenticity, and dedication makes her a standout journalist. Her journey from Garhwal to national prominence resonates with those searching for “Indian women journalists” or “top news anchors in India.” Her story is one of grit, grace, and an unwavering commitment to truth, ensuring her place among India’s media luminaries.
Top FAQs About Meenakshi Kandwal, Journalist
  1. Who is Meenakshi Kandwal?
    Meenakshi Kandwal is an Indian journalist and news anchor, best known for her work with Aaj Tak and her victory in Star Anchor Hunt in 2010.
  2. Where was Meenakshi Kandwal born?
    She was born in Garhwal, Uttarakhand, on March 16, 1986, and raised in New Delhi.
  3. What is Meenakshi Kandwal’s educational background?
    She holds a B.Com from Vivekananda College, Delhi University, and an MA in Mass Communication from Sri Aurobindo Centre for Arts and Communication.
  4. How did Meenakshi Kandwal start her journalism career?
    She began her career by winning Star Anchor Hunt on Star News in 2010, leading to her first anchoring role.
  5. Which news channels has Meenakshi Kandwal worked for?
    She has worked with Star News (ABP News), India TV, Aaj Tak, and briefly Times Now Navbharat.
  6. What are some popular shows hosted by Meenakshi Kandwal?
    She hosted Aaj Subah, Ek Aur Ek Gyarah, and Viral Test on Aaj Tak.
  7. Is Meenakshi Kandwal married?
    Yes, she married Amit Raina in 2018.
  8. What awards has Meenakshi Kandwal won?
    She received the ENBA Award for Best Team Coverage for her work on demonetization reporting.
  9. What is Meenakshi Kandwal doing now in 2025?
    As of March 2025, she is an independent journalist and YouTuber, creating content on her own platform.
  10. What are Meenakshi Kandwal’s hobbies?
    She enjoys traveling, swimming, photography, reading, and is an avid dog lover with a passion for spirituality.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Ajit Hanamakkanavar: Profile, Wiki, Family, Caste and Wife

Ajit Hanamakkanavar is a household name in Karnataka, recognized as one of the most influential and polarizing journalists in the Kannada media landscape. As the anchor and editor at Asianet Suvarna News, a leading Kannada news channel allegedly linked to BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Ajit has built a reputation for his bold, unapologetic style. Known for his incisive debates and willingness to tackle controversial topics, he has both ardent supporters and vocal critics. This biography delves into Ajit Hanamakkanavar’s early life, career trajectory, notable achievements, personal milestones, and the controversies that have shaped his journey as a journalist in Karnataka. Early Life: A Foundation in Karnataka Ajit Hanamakkanavar was born in Karnataka, though exact details about his birth date and hometown remain sparse in public records. Some sources suggest he hails from Chikkodi, a town in Belagavi district, as he has referenced it sentimentally in his writings. Growing up in...
Post a Comment
Read more

Dr. Narayana Murthy Cancer Treatment: Personal Experience

The Dr. Narayana Murthy Cancer Treatment Center in Shimoga, Karnataka, has become a household name for those seeking alternative cancer treatments. Known for its Ayurvedic approach, this center, led by the late Shri Vaidya Narayana Murthy and now continued by his family, attracts thousands of patients from across India and beyond. Located in the serene village of Narasipura, approximately 50 kilometers from Shimoga (also known as Shivamogga), this herbal healing hub offers a unique blend of traditional wisdom and natural remedies. In this article, we explore the history, treatment methods, patient experiences, and practical details surrounding this renowned center, shedding light on why it’s often referred to as the "Shimoga Cancer Treatment." Who Was Dr. Narayana Murthy? Dr. Narayana Murthy, often respectfully called Vaidya Narayana Murthy, was an Ayurvedic practitioner whose family has been involved in herbal medicine for 14 generations. Born in Narasipura village in the S...
Post a Comment
Read more

Garima Malik, IPS: Bio, Wiki, Husband, Family, Age and Caste

Garima Malik, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 2006 Bihar cadre, is a name synonymous with dedication, leadership, and resilience. Known for her exemplary service in one of India’s most challenging administrative landscapes, she has carved a niche as a dynamic and principled law enforcement officer. Early Life and Education Garima Malik was born and raised in a family that valued education and public service. While specific details about her birthplace and family background remain limited in public records, her academic journey reflects her commitment to excellence. She pursued higher education with a focus on preparing for one of India’s toughest examinations—the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination. Garima’s intellectual rigor and disciplined approach helped her crack the UPSC exam, securing a rank that earned her a coveted spot in the Indian Police Service. Her choice of IPS was driven by a desire to serve the nation, uphold justice, an...
Post a Comment
Read more

Unwanted 21 Days: Review, Side Effects and Dose

Unwanted 21 Days Unwanted 21 Days: A Comprehensive Guide to Contraception Introduction Unwanted 21 Days is an oral contraceptive commonly used in India for preventing pregnancy. This medication, which consists of a combination of hormones, offers a reliable method of birth control for women looking to delay or space pregnancies. In this article, we'll explore the benefits, uses, and possible side effects of Unwanted 21 Days, providing you with a thorough understanding to help in making informed decisions about contraception. What is Unwanted 21 Days? Unwanted 21 Days is a combined oral contraceptive pill that contains Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel, two hormones that mimic the natural estrogen and progesterone in the female body. Available in blister packs with 21 tablets, this method is designed to be taken daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break when menstruation typically occurs. Uses of Unwanted 21 Days Contraception: The primary use of Unwanted 2...
Post a Comment
Read more

Isha Ambani: Complete Profile and Biography

Isha Ambani is a name synonymous with innovation, leadership, and legacy. As the daughter of Mukesh Ambani, Asia's richest man, and Nita Ambani, a renowned philanthropist, Isha has carved her own path in the world of business while contributing significantly to India's corporate and social landscape. Born on October 23, 1991, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, Isha Ambani is a key figure in Reliance Industries, spearheading transformative initiatives in retail and telecommunications. This comprehensive Isha Ambani biography explores her early life, education, career, family, net worth, and her remarkable contributions to Reliance Retail, Reliance Jio, and beyond. Early Life and Family Background Isha Mukesh Ambani was born into one of India’s most influential families, the Ambanis, known for their business empire, Reliance Industries. She is the only daughter of Mukesh Ambani, the chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries, and Nita Ambani, the founder and chairperson o...
Post a Comment
Read more

Shilpa Prabhakar Satish, IAS: Profile, Wiki, Husband, Age and Family

Shilpa Prabhakar Satish, an esteemed Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, is a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu’s bureaucratic landscape. Known for her dedication, leadership, and significant contributions to public administration, she has held several key positions in the state government. Recently, her name has surfaced in news due to a major bureaucratic reshuffle in Tamil Nadu. Early Life and Education of Shilpa Prabhakar Satish Shilpa Prabhakar Satish was born in Tamil Nadu, India, though specific details about her birth date and early childhood remain private, as is common with many IAS officers. She hails from a family that valued education and discipline, which played a pivotal role in shaping her career aspirations. Shilpa exhibited academic excellence from a young age, excelling in her studies and developing a keen interest in public service. She pursued her higher education at reputed institutions, though exact details about her college or degree are not widely pu...
Post a Comment
Read more

Sudhir Chaudhary: Profile, Wife and Family

Sudhir Chaudhary is a name that resonates deeply within the Indian media landscape. As a seasoned journalist, news anchor, and editor, he has shaped television journalism with his bold style and incisive commentary. Currently serving as a consulting editor at Aaj Tak, where he hosts the prime-time show Black & White , Chaudhary’s career spans over three decades, marked by significant achievements, controversies, and a steadfast commitment to news reporting. This detailed biography explores Sudhir Chaudhary’s early life, education, illustrious career, personal milestones, and the polarizing incidents that have defined his journey as of February 21, 2025. Early Life and Family: Roots in Haryana Sudhir Chaudhary was born on June 7, 1974, in Sondhad, a village in Hodal tehsil, Palwal district, Haryana, India. Growing up in a middle-class Jat family, he was instilled with values of hard work and resilience. Information about his parents and siblings remains limited, as Sudhir ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Prachi Parashar, Anchor: Profile, Bio, Age, Boyfriend and Family

Prachi Parashar is a prominent Indian television news anchor and journalist, widely recognized for her sharp anchoring skills, charismatic presence, and dedication to delivering unbiased news. With a career spanning multiple leading news channels such as Zee News, ABP Ganga, and India TV, Prachi has carved a niche for herself in the competitive world of Indian media. Her journey from a budding journalist to a celebrated news anchor is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and passion for storytelling. Early Life and Background Prachi Parashar was born on November 11 in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, India, though her exact birth year remains undisclosed, making it difficult to pinpoint her age. Raised in a supportive family, Prachi grew up alongside her siblings, Kartikay Parashar (brother) and Kratika Parashar (sister), with whom she shares a close bond. Her father, Pradeep Sharma, and her mother, Beena Sharma, provided a nurturing environment that encouraged her to pursue her dreams...
Post a Comment
Read more

Mayur Suryavanshi, IAS: Complete Profile and Biography

Mayur Suryavanshi is a name that resonates with determination, resilience, and excellence in the realm of Indian civil services. As an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, Mayur has emerged as a beacon of inspiration for countless aspirants aiming to crack one of the toughest competitive exams in the world—the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination. Early Life and Family Background Mayur Suryavanshi was born into a modest family in India, where values of hard work, education, and service to society were deeply ingrained. While specific details about her birth date and hometown are not widely publicized, it is known that she hails from a middle-class background, a common thread among many successful IAS officers who rise through sheer grit and determination. Her parents played a pivotal role in shaping her aspirations, encouraging her to pursue academic excellence and contribute meaningfully to the nation. Growing up, Mayur exhibited a keen interest in...
Post a Comment
Read more

Shloka Mehta: Profile, Age, Family and Caste

Shloka Mehta is a name synonymous with elegance, philanthropy, and business acumen in India. As the daughter-in-law of one of the world’s richest families, the Ambanis, and the wife of Akash Ambani, Shloka has carved a niche for herself through her professional endeavors and grounded personality. Early Life and Family Background Shloka Mehta was born on July 11, 1990, in Mumbai, India, into the affluent and respected Mehta family. Her father, Russell Mehta, is the managing director of Rosy Blue India, one of the country’s largest diamond manufacturing companies. Her mother, Mona Mehta, is a well-known figure in Mumbai’s social and business circles. Shloka grew up alongside her siblings, Viraj Mehta and Diya Mehta Jatia, in a nurturing environment that emphasized education, values, and social responsibility. Raised in Mumbai, Shloka’s upbringing was marked by privilege, but her parents instilled in her a sense of humility and purpose. Her family’s deep roots in the diamond indu...
Post a Comment
Read more