Who Is Akash Makhija? Actor Who Played Babu in Raakh, a Series Inspired by the Ranga–Billa Case

Akash Makhija is an Indian actor and voice-over artist known for his work in the Hindi entertainment industry, earning recognition for his versatility across web series and films. He rose to prominence with his critically acclaimed portrayal of the psychopathic antagonist Babu in the Amazon Prime Video series Raakh, inspired by the infamous 1970s Ranga–Billa case. With a career spanning over a decade, Makhija has steadily evolved from a background television performer to a notable face in the OTT space. 

Akash Makhija was born and raised in a Sindhi joint family in Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra. He completed his schooling and graduation before deciding to pursue acting full-time. In his personal life, he tied the knot with his childhood sweetheart, Roshni Budhiraja, in April 2026. 

Akash Makhija’s journey in the industry is a story of persistence and hard work, as he spent nearly 14 years travelling across Mumbai for auditions. In the early phase of his career, he faced numerous rejections and supported himself through television commercials for brands like Cadbury and McDonald’s, along with episodic roles in shows such as Crime Patrol and minor background appearances. His breakthrough in television came with notable roles in serials like Har Mard Ka Dard (2017) and Sargam Ki Sadhe Satii (2021), which helped him gain recognition. 

Akash Makhija gained recognition with his role as Aatish Pathak in Nirmal Pathak Ki Ghar Wapsi (2022), a Sony LIV original that earned him a nomination at the Filmfare OTT Awards 2023. He further impressed audiences by playing Gobind in Gram Chikitsalay (2025–2026), a TVF-produced series on Amazon Prime Video, which brought him another Filmfare OTT Awards nomination in 2025.

In 2026, Akash Makhija delivered a breakthrough performance as Babu in the Amazon Prime Video crime-thriller series Raakh. He secured the role after competing against nearly 700–800 actors and went on to earn widespread praise for his chilling and realistic portrayal of a cold-blooded antagonist. The gritty 8-episode investigation drama is inspired by the infamous 1978 Ranga–Billa case in Delhi, which revolved around the tragic abduction and murder of two teenage siblings, adding a haunting depth to the narrative.