Anang Desai is a veteran Indian actor with a long and illustrious career, particularly known for his work in television and films. With a career spanning several decades, Desai has accumulated wealth and recognition, becoming one of the most respected names in the Indian entertainment industry. This detailed exploration of his net worth will touch upon his income sources, major projects, career highlights, and other factors that have contributed to his financial success.

Early Life and Background
Anang Desai was born on May 4, 1953, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. He had a passion for acting from a young age and pursued this interest by joining the National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi, a prestigious institution that has produced many of India’s finest actors. His formal training in acting set the foundation for a versatile career in theatre, television, and films. The initial years in the industry weren’t particularly lucrative, but his persistence paid off as he began to make a name for himself.
Career Beginnings
Anang Desai began his career in theatre and moved on to do small roles in films and television. His early work was in Gujarati theatre, where he honed his acting skills. In the beginning, Desai didn’t earn much, as theatre in India, particularly regional theatre, is not as financially rewarding as Bollywood or television. However, the experience gained during this period was invaluable and helped him transition into mainstream television and films.
Rise to Fame: TV Serials
One of the key turning points in Anang Desai’s career was his role in the popular television series “Khichdi”. This lighthearted sitcom, which originally aired in 2002, showcased Desai in the iconic role of Babuji (Tulsidas Parekh). His portrayal of the conservative yet lovable head of the Parekh family endeared him to audiences all over India. The show became a massive success, and Anang Desai’s performance became synonymous with his on-screen persona.
Television, especially popular sitcoms, tends to pay actors a stable and recurring income, and Desai’s role in “Khichdi” brought him financial stability. According to reports, actors in successful TV series can earn anywhere from ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 per episode, depending on their experience and the show’s popularity. With “Khichdi” being a long-running show with multiple seasons and even a film adaptation, Desai’s earnings from this project were substantial.
Net Worth Contributions from Khichdi:
- TV series earnings: ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 per episode
- “Khichdi” movie adaptation earnings
- Syndication and rerun royalties
Other Notable TV Appearances
Beyond “Khichdi”, Anang Desai has appeared in several other television shows, many of which were also popular. He has been a versatile actor, playing various roles in dramas, comedies, and historical series. Some of the notable TV appearances that have added to his earnings include:
- “Tenali Rama” – A historical comedy show in which Desai played an important role.
- “Baa Bahoo Aur Baby” – Another popular family drama where Desai’s presence added gravitas to the ensemble cast.
- “Sarabhai vs Sarabhai” – A cult comedy series, where Desai made a guest appearance, further expanding his fan base.
These shows, though not as iconic as “Khichdi”, contributed to his wealth. Regular appearances on television have helped Desai maintain a steady flow of income over the years.
Film Career
While Anang Desai is primarily known for his work in television, he has also acted in several Bollywood films. His filmography includes both commercial and parallel cinema. His roles in films, though often supporting, have earned him recognition as a reliable character actor. Some of the notable films he has appeared in include:
- “Gandhi” (1982) – Desai played a small but significant role in this international biopic on Mahatma Gandhi, directed by Richard Attenborough. The film was a global success, and though Desai’s role was not a major one, being part of such an iconic project helped elevate his stature in the film industry.
- “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam” (1999) – Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, this film was a major box office hit. Desai played a supporting role, which, although small, was memorable. The film’s success also meant a good payout for the actors involved, including Desai.
- “Raju Chacha” (2000) – In this family drama, Anang Desai had a notable role. While the film didn’t perform as expected at the box office, it added to his diverse portfolio of work.
- “Ready” (2011) – In this Salman Khan-starrer, Desai appeared in a supporting role. The film was a commercial hit, and given the large-scale success of such movies, even supporting actors stand to earn significantly.
Theatre Contributions
In addition to films and television, Anang Desai has continued to work in theatre, particularly in Gujarati plays. While theatre may not be as financially rewarding as TV or films, it remains a passion for Desai. He has acted in and directed several plays, keeping his connection with the stage alive. Theatre work, though not a major contributor to his net worth, has provided him with creative satisfaction and consistent income over the years.
Brand Endorsements and Commercials
Like many television actors, Anang Desai has also appeared in advertisements and brand endorsements. Given his image as the lovable “Babuji” from “Khichdi,” Desai has been a popular face in family-oriented brands. While his advertising work isn’t as prolific as some of his peers, it has certainly contributed to his overall earnings. TV stars in India often command fees ranging from ₹5 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs for brand endorsements, depending on their popularity and the brand’s budget.
Financial Stability and Investments
Anang Desai’s long and steady career in entertainment has ensured financial stability. He is known to lead a relatively low-profile life, with no reports of extravagant spending or lavish lifestyles often associated with Bollywood stars. Desai’s steady work in television, films, and theatre, combined with intelligent financial planning, has likely led to sound investments in real estate and other assets.
Many actors in Desai’s position often invest in real estate properties in Mumbai, which is one of the most expensive cities in India. While there are no public reports of Desai’s specific investments, it is reasonable to assume that his years of steady earnings have allowed him to invest wisely in properties or other financial instruments.
Estimated Net Worth
While precise details of Anang Desai’s net worth are not publicly available, based on his long-standing career in television, films, and theatre, along with his involvement in brand endorsements, it can be estimated that his net worth falls between $2 million and $5 million (approximately ₹15 crore to ₹40 crore). His income sources are diverse, ranging from television earnings, film roles, theatre work, and advertisements. His modest lifestyle also indicates that he has likely saved and invested wisely over the years.
Awards and Recognition
While Anang Desai’s net worth is reflective of his financial success, his true wealth lies in the respect and recognition he has garnered over the years. He has been nominated for and won several awards for his performances, particularly for his role as Babuji in “Khichdi”. These accolades further cement his reputation as a talented and versatile actor, contributing to his marketability and longevity in the industry.
Continuing Career
Anang Desai continues to be active in the entertainment industry, with occasional appearances in TV shows, films, and theatre. While newer actors may have taken the spotlight in recent years, Desai remains a beloved figure, particularly for his role in “Khichdi”. His enduring presence in the industry ensures that his net worth will continue to grow, even if at a slower pace compared to his peak years.
In conclusion, Anang Desai’s net worth is the result of decades of hard work and dedication to his craft. From his early days in Gujarati theatre to becoming a household name in Indian television, Desai’s journey is a testament to his talent and perseverance. His financial success, combined with the immense love and respect he has earned from audiences, makes him one of the most respected figures in the Indian entertainment industry.