Jiya Shankar is a rising Indian television actress, model, and digital creator who has carved out a distinctive place in the competitive landscape of Indian entertainment through her compelling performances, versatile range, and magnetic screen presence.
Best known for her roles in the beloved comedy-drama series Meri Hanikarak Biwi and the hit SAB TV show Kaatelal & Sons, Jiya gained her widest national recognition when she appeared as a contestant on the massively popular reality show Bigg Boss OTT 2 in 2023.
Her journey from a young girl with acting ambitions in Mumbai to a recognized face in Indian TV is a story of persistent auditions, early setbacks, and eventual triumphant success.
Profile
| Full Name | Jiya Anil Manne (Shankar) |
| Born | April 17, 1995 |
| Age | 31 years old |
| Birthplace | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Actress, Model, YouTuber |
| Religion | Hindu |
| Height | 5 ft 3 in (160 cm) |
| Parents | Shankar (father); Surekha Gavli (mother, hairstylist) |
| Relationship | Single / Private |
| Net Worth | ₹2–3 crore ($500,000+) |
Early Life
Jiya Shankar was born Jiya Anil Manne on April 17, 1995, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. She was born into a middle-class Mumbai family and grew up primarily with her mother, Surekha Gavli, a skilled hairstylist who became Jiya’s primary caregiver and greatest source of support. Her parents divorced when Jiya was just 13 years old, an event that, while difficult, ultimately strengthened her bond with her mother and helped shape her resilient, self-reliant character. She has often spoken warmly about her mother in interviews, describing her as her biggest inspiration and her most important support system.
From childhood, Jiya was drawn to the performing arts. Growing up in Mumbai, Bollywood’s home city, she was surrounded by the entertainment industry from a young age, and her passion for acting was evident before she reached her teenage years. She began dreaming of becoming an actress and started pursuing her ambitions by giving auditions from the age of 16.
Education
Jiya Shankar completed her schooling in Mumbai. After completing her graduation, she also briefly pursued studies in digital marketing, though she did not complete the course. She later joined the acting school of legendary Bollywood actor Anupam Kher to formally train in the craft of acting, a decision that proved instrumental in honing the skills that would eventually make her a successful television actress. Her training under Kher’s mentorship gave her a strong technical foundation in performance alongside her natural talent.
Career
Jiya Shankar began her acting career around 2013 with her debut in the Telugu film Entha Andanga Unnave, giving her early exposure to regional cinema. She subsequently appeared in the Tamil film Kanavu Variyam (2017). Her entry into Hindi television started with smaller roles and cameo appearances in various shows, but she faced considerable early rejection, auditions that didn’t materialize into significant roles and a period of professional uncertainty that tested her resolve.
Her major breakthrough came with the role of Dr. Iravati “Ira” Pandey in &TV’s popular comedy-drama series Meri Hanikarak Biwi (2017–2019). The show, which aired to strong viewership, gave Jiya a national platform and introduced her to millions of Indian television viewers. Her portrayal of the confident, sharp-witted doctor earned her widespread appreciation and significantly elevated her professional standing.
She followed this success with another strong performance in the SAB TV comedy series Kaatelal & Sons (2020–2021), in which she played Susheela Ruhail Solanki, a role that further demonstrated her comedic timing and versatility. She also co-hosted Good Night India on Sony SAB in 2022. She appeared in the supernatural drama Pishachini, expanding her range into thriller and supernatural genres. In 2022, she made her Marathi film debut in Ved, starring alongside Riteish Deshmukh in what proved to be a commercially successful and critically appreciated production.
In 2023, Jiya Shankar became a contestant on Bigg Boss OTT 2 — India’s most-watched reality television show. Her stint on the show, which she entered as herself rather than a character, brought her a new wave of national recognition. Audiences praised her for her confidence, candidness, composed demeanor under pressure, and her authentic personality. She developed a close and much-discussed friendship with fellow contestant Abhishek Malhan (Fukra Insaan) during the show, though she confirmed this was a platonic bond. Her appearance significantly expanded her fanbase and opened new professional doors.
Beyond acting, Jiya Shankar has established herself as a successful model and brand influencer, promoting brands including IKONIC and various fashion and beauty products. She earns an estimated per-episode salary of ₹70,000–80,000 for television work and approximately ₹1–2 crore per film.
Awards & Nominations
- Best Debut Award – Queens Hai Hum
- Recognized for performances in Meri Hanikarak Biwi and Kaatelal & Sons
- Nominated in various emerging actress categories at television award events
Social Media
Jiya Shankar is very active on social media, particularly Instagram and YouTube, where she shares personal lifestyle content, behind-the-scenes glimpses, travel posts, and fan interactions. She has built a substantial following across platforms, with her post-Bigg Boss visibility significantly boosting her online numbers. Her social media presence is a key component of her overall brand and income.
Personal Life
Jiya Shankar is unmarried and as of 2026 is reportedly in a relationship with Indian TV actor Paras Arora, known for his roles in Mahabharat and Udann, though details of their relationship remain largely private. She has been an animal lover throughout her career and is particularly fond of her Persian cat. She is known for her love of travel and regularly shares travel content with her followers. She has been involved in charitable giving, donating to NGOs and supporting education-related causes, though she has not made public the specifics of her contributions.
Net Worth
Jiya Shankar’s estimated net worth is approximately ₹2–3 crore (approximately $250,000–$500,000 USD). Her income derives from television acting fees, film payments, brand endorsements, social media sponsorships, YouTube ad revenue, and public appearances. Her annual income is reportedly approximately ₹2 crore. Her earning potential continues to grow with each new project and brand deal.
Filmography
- Entha Andanga Unnave (2013) – Telugu film debut
- Kanavu Variyam (2017) – Tamil film
- Love By Chance (2015) – TV debut
- Queens Hai Hum – TV (as Shreya Dixit Rathore)
- Meri Hanikarak Biwi (2017–2019) – &TV (as Dr. Ira Pandey)
- Kaatelal & Sons (2020–2021) – SAB TV (as Susheela Ruhail Solanki)
- Good Night India (2022) – SAB TV co-host
- Pishachini – TV supernatural drama
- Ved (2022) – Marathi film with Riteish Deshmukh
- Bigg Boss OTT 2 (2023) – Reality contestant
FAQs
Who is Jiya Shankar?
She is an Indian actress and model best known for Meri Hanikarak Biwi, Kaatelal & Sons, and her appearance on Bigg Boss OTT 2.
How old is Jiya Shankar?
She was born on April 17, 1995, making her 31 years old in 2026.
Is Jiya Shankar married?
No, she is unmarried as of 2026.
What is Jiya Shankar’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is approximately ₹2–3 crore.
Conclusion
Jiya Shankar’s career is a testament to the power of persistence, professional training, and authenticity in the face of a fiercely competitive entertainment industry. From her early rejections to her breakthrough in Meri Hanikarak Biwi, her comic success in Kaatelal & Sons, her Marathi film debut in Ved, and her widened national recognition from Bigg Boss OTT 2, she has proven herself a versatile and engaging performer. With the best years of her career still ahead, Jiya Shankar’s trajectory in Indian entertainment looks bright and full of promise