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
- 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. - Where was Meenakshi Kandwal born?
She was born in Garhwal, Uttarakhand, on March 16, 1986, and raised in New Delhi. - 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. - 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. - 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. - What are some popular shows hosted by Meenakshi Kandwal?
She hosted Aaj Subah, Ek Aur Ek Gyarah, and Viral Test on Aaj Tak. - Is Meenakshi Kandwal married?
Yes, she married Amit Raina in 2018. - What awards has Meenakshi Kandwal won?
She received the ENBA Award for Best Team Coverage for her work on demonetization reporting. - 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. - What are Meenakshi Kandwal’s hobbies?
She enjoys traveling, swimming, photography, reading, and is an avid dog lover with a passion for spirituality.
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