Raqesh Bapat

01 Sep, 1978 | Mumbai, Maharastra

Biography

Raqesh Bapat (born 1 September 1978 ) is an Indian actor and model from Amravati, Maharashtra, India . He developed an early interest in the arts, including painting and sculpture , winning a national award for his artwork during his school years — a passion he continues to express through creating his own Ganpati idols and artistic works . Film & Television Career Raqesh began his acting career in 2001 with the Hindi film Tum Bin , which became a notable early success. Over the years, he has appeared in a variety of films including Koi Mere Dil Mein Hai , Vrundavan , Savita Damodar Paranjape and more, across both Hindi and Marathi cinema. On television, he has been part of popular series like Saat Phere: Saloni Ka Safar , Maryada: Lekin Kab Tak? and Qubool Hai , gaining recognition for his versatility in both dramatic and romantic roles. Reality Television Raqesh has been a familiar face in the Bigg Boss franchise. He competed in Bigg Boss OTT (2021) , where he finished as one of the top contestants, and later entered Bigg Boss 15 as a wildcard, though had to exit early due to health reasons. In 2026 , he returned to reality TV as a contestant on Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6 , bringing his extensive entertainment experience into the Marathi reality scene. Art & Personal Interests Beyond acting, Raqesh is a passionate artist . From painting since childhood to sculpting eco-friendly Ganpati idols each year , he uses art as a core form of self-expression and creative therapy. His artistic pursuits are often shared with fans on social media, where his work is widely appreciated. Personal Life Raqesh Bapat was married to actress Ridhi Dogra in 2011 after meeting on the set of Maryada: Lekin Kab Tak? The couple remained together for eight years before consensually parting ways in 2019 , maintaining mutual respect and friendship after their separation. He was later in a relationship with actress Shamita Shetty , whom he met on Bigg Boss OTT , but they amicably broke up in 2022 . Bigg Boss Raqesh Bapat is one of the confirmed contestants on Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6 , the Marathi reality show hosted by Riteish Deshmukh, which premiered on 11 January 2026 on Colors Marathi and JioHotstar .