On June 8, 2025, Tarana Raja celebrated her 48th birthday, marking another year of her inspiring journey in the Indian entertainment industry. Tarana Raja is a talented Indian actress, dancer, radio host, and television anchor. She is loved by many for her charming personality and hard work. Her life story is full of dedication, creativity, and success. This article tells the complete biography of Tarana Raja in simple words, so everyone can understand her amazing journey.
Early Life and Family
Tarana Raja was born on January 24, 1977, in Delhi, India. Her full name is Tarana Raja Kapoor. She was born into a cultured and educated family. Her father’s name is Rabindranath Raja, and her mother’s name is Madhu Raja. Madhu Raja is also an actress, which means acting runs in the family. Tarana has a sister named Shalini Raja. When Tarana was very young, her family moved to Mumbai, Maharashtra. Mumbai became her home, and she grew up in this busy city.
As a child, Tarana was full of energy. She loved dancing and performing. Her parents supported her interests. They saw her talent and encouraged her to follow her dreams. Growing up in Mumbai gave Tarana a chance to explore the world of arts. She went to Walsingham House School in Mumbai for her early education. Later, she joined Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics in Mumbai. She worked hard in her studies and completed her graduation. Tarana also joined the University of Mumbai to continue her studies.
Passion for Dance
Tarana’s love for dance started when she was a little girl. She was especially fond of dancing. This is a traditional Indian dance form with beautiful steps and expressions. Tarana trained to become a professional dancer. She joined Shiamak Davar’s Institute of Performing Arts in Mumbai. Shiamak Davar is a famous dance teacher in India. Under his guidance, Tarana became an expert in dancing.
Her hard work in dance earned her a special award called “Shringar Mani.” This award is given to talented dancers. Tarana was proud of this honor. She didn’t just dance for herself—she also taught others. She became a dance teacher at Shiamak Davar’s school. Teaching dance made her happy. She loved sharing her skills with young students. Her passion for dance is still a big part of her life.
Tarana Raja Age, Wikipedia, Biography, Career, Husband, Daughter, Family
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tarana Raja Kapoor |
| Nickname | Tarana |
| Date of Birth | January 24, 1977 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 48 years |
| Birthplace | New Delhi, India |
| Hometown | Mumbai, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Ethnicity | Asian/Indian |
| Parents | Father: Rabindranath Raja Mother: Madhu Raja (Actress) |
| Siblings | Sister: Shalini Raja |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Raja Kapoor |
| Children | Not Known |
| Height | 5’4” (163 cm) |
| Weight | 55 kg (121 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Education | Graduate, Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics, Mumbai Attended University of Mumbai Shiamak Davar's Institute of Performing Arts |
| Profession | Actress, Radio Jockey (RJ), Television Anchor, Podcaster, Writer, Kathak Dancer |
| Debut | TV: Sanskruti (2001) Film: Laaga Chunari Mein Daag (2007) |
| Notable TV Shows | Bade Achhe Lagte Hain (2011–2014, as Neha Shergill) Ssshhhh... Koi Hai (2001) Kumkum Kasautii Zindagii Kay Kkusum Dil Dosti Dance (2011–2012, as Smriti Ghai) Crime Beat (2025, as Sameera Saxena) |
| Notable Films | Karthik Calling Karthik (2010, as Neelu Didi) Jodi Breakers (2012) Pyaar Ke Side Effects (2006) Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic (2008) Yaara Vey (2022) |
| Radio Career | Co-hosted "Jaggu and Tarana" with Ashish Jagtiani on Go 92.5 FM Hosted "Good Morning Mumbai" on Go 92.5 FM Hosted "Suno 1024" in Dubai (2016) |
| Awards | - Rapa Award for Best Female RJ in India (2008) - Rapa Award for Best Programme for Flashback (Radio, 2007) - Shringar Mani title for Kathak |
| Dance Career | Trained Kathak dancer, worked as a Kathak instructor at Shiamak Davar’s Institute of Performing Arts |
| Other Achievements | Hosted COLORS CricQuiz (TV show inspired by her radio program) Zed TV’s "Zed & You" Hosted several award shows including Screen Awards (2002), Star Parivar Awards (2004), Zed Cine Awards (2006), Apsara Awards (2012), New Talent Awards (2012) |
| Hobbies | Dancing, reading, traveling |
| Notable Collaborations | Famous radio pairing with RJ Ashish Jagtiani |
Start of Career in Radio
Tarana’s career began in an unexpected way. While she was in college, her friends told her about a job opening at Radio Midday. They were looking for new radio jockeys (RJs). Tarana decided to try her luck. She went for the audition and impressed everyone with her voice and confidence. She was selected as a radio jockey. This was the start of her journey in the world of media.
Tarana became part of a popular radio show called “Jaggu and Tarana.” She hosted this show with Ashish Jagtiani, who is also known as Jaggu. The show was a big hit in Mumbai. People loved listening to Tarana and Jaggu. They had fun conversations and played great music. Their chemistry was amazing, and they became a famous radio duo. The show was so popular that it led to a television program called COLORS CricQuiz. Tarana’s work on the radio made her a household name.
In 2007, Tarana won the RAPA Award for Best Show for her radio program “Flashback.” In 2008, she won another RAPA Award for Best Female RJ in India. These awards showed how talented she was as a radio host. In 2016, Tarana moved to Dubai to host a new radio show called “Suno 1024” with Ashish Jagtiani. She still works on this show and lives in Dubai.
Acting Career on Television
Tarana is not just a radio host—she is also a talented actress. She started acting on television in 2001. Her first TV show was called “Sanskruti.” This was her debut as an actress, and she did a great job. People noticed her acting skills. After this, she appeared in many popular TV shows.
One of her most famous roles was in the TV serial “Bade Achhe Lagte Hain.” This show aired on Sony TV from 2011 to 2014. Tarana played the role of Neha Shergill. Her character was loved by the audience. She acted alongside famous actors like Ram Kapoor and Sakshi Tanwar. The show was a huge success, and Tarana became even more popular.
Tarana also acted in other TV shows like “Ssshhhh… Koi Hai” in 2001 and “Dil Dosti Dance” from 2011 to 2012. In “Dil Dosti Dance,” she played the role of Smriti Ghai, a mother. Her performances were always natural and heartfelt. She also appeared in “Crime Beat” in 2025, playing the role of Sameera Saxena. Tarana’s ability to play different characters made her a versatile actress.
Work in Films
Tarana Raja has also worked in movies. Her first film was “Laaga Chunari Mein Daag” in 2007. This was a Bollywood movie starring Rani Mukerji. Tarana had a small role, but it was an important step in her career. In 2010, she acted in “Karthik Calling Karthik,” a film with Deepika Padukone and Farhan Akhtar. She played the role of Neelu Didi. Her performance was appreciated by many.
In 2012, Tarana appeared in the movie “Jodi Breakers.” She also worked in English-dubbed Hindi films like “300” (2007) and “Eragon” (2006). She lent her voice to the animated film “Quest for Camelot.” Her work in films showed that she could handle different kinds of roles, from acting to voice acting.
Theater and Hosting
Tarana is a multi-talented person. She has also worked in theater. In 2009 and 2010, she acted in an English play called “Some Girl(s).” She played the role of Bobby/Shivani. Performing on stage was a new challenge for her, and she did it with confidence.
As a television anchor, Tarana hosted many award shows. She presented events like the Screen Awards (2002), Star Parivar Awards (2004), Zee Cine Awards (2006), Apsara Awards (2012), and New Talent Awards (2012). She also hosted a show called “Zed & You” on Zee TV. Her hosting skills were amazing. She was confident, funny, and connected well with the audience.
Personal Life
Tarana Raja is married to Raja Kapoor. They make a wonderful couple. Tarana keeps her personal life private, so not much is known about her family life. She is a Hindu and follows her religion with pride. Her family has always supported her career. Her mother, Madhu Raja, being an actress, understood Tarana’s passion for the arts.
Tarana loves to stay fit and healthy. She believes in living life to the fullest. In an interview, she said, “It’s one life, so don’t waste it by being depressed.” She exercises regularly, doing a mix of weights and cardio. She listens to her body and takes care of her health. Tarana is also an avid reader and loves to travel. These hobbies keep her happy and inspired.
Achievements and Legacy
Tarana Raja’s career is full of achievements. She has worked in radio, television, films, and theater. Her awards, like the RAPA Awards and Shringar Mani, show her talent. She is admired for her hard work and versatility. Tarana has inspired many young people who want to work in the entertainment industry.
Her journey from a college student to a famous actress and radio host is remarkable. She faced challenges but never gave up. Her love for dance, acting, and hosting has made her a star. Tarana’s story teaches us that with passion and dedication, we can achieve our dreams.
Conclusion
Tarana Raja is a true gem of the Indian entertainment world. Born on January 24, 1977, she has spent over 25 years entertaining people. From her radio show “Jaggu and Tarana” to her role in “Bade Achhe Lagte Hain,” she has won hearts everywhere. Her dance, acting, and hosting skills make her special. Today, she continues to work in Dubai, hosting “Suno 1024” and inspiring others.