Gaurav Taneja (Flying Beast): From IIT Engineer to India's Aviation Vlogger - Complete Biography 2025

Article Summary: Comprehensive biography of Gaurav Taneja, popularly known as Flying Beast, India's most prominent aviation and lifestyle vlogger with 9.3+ million subscribers and ₹37-41 crore ($5 million) net worth. Exploring his remarkable journey from IIT Kharagpur civil engineering graduate to commercial pilot, courageous whistleblower who sacrificed his aviation career for passenger safety, fitness icon with FitMuscle TV, devoted husband to fellow pilot Ritu Rathee, father of two daughters (Rasbhari and Pihu), the shocking 2024 marital crisis that divided the nation, entrepreneurial ventures including BeastLife supplements and Rozier dairy, and his transformative influence on Indian family vlogging and aviation safety advocacy.

In India's digital landscape dominated by comedy sketches and gaming channels, one creator built an empire on authenticity, discipline, and an unusual combination: aviation, fitness, and family life. Gaurav Taneja, the IIT graduate who became Flying Beast, didn't just document his life,he invited millions into the cockpit of commercial aviation, the gym floor of bodybuilding culture, and the intimate moments of raising daughters with a fellow pilot wife. With 9.3 million subscribers, billions of views across three channels, and influence extending from YouTube to aviation safety regulations, Gaurav represents the modern Indian Renaissance man. Yet 2024 tested him like never before, when marital troubles became public spectacle, forcing India's favorite pilot-vlogger family to navigate crisis under the harsh glare of millions of concerned fans.

Table of Contents:

• Who Is Gaurav Taneja?
• Early Life: Kanpur to IIT Kharagpur
• The IIT Years: Engineering and Bodybuilding
• Becoming a Commercial Pilot
• Meet Ritu Rathee: The Pilot Wife
• Marriage and Family Life
• The YouTube Journey: Three Channels
• FitMuscle TV: The Fitness Educator
• Flying Beast: Family Vlogging Phenomenon
• Rasbhari Ke Papa: Gaming and Live Streams
• The AirAsia Whistleblower Incident
• Aviation Safety Advocacy
• The Daughters: Rasbhari and Pihu
• Content Philosophy and Style
• Current Statistics and Reach
• Business Ventures and Monetization
• The 2024 Marriage Crisis
• Ritu's Spiritual Journey and Social Media Exit
• Reconciliation and Moving Forward
• Controversies and Challenges
• Cultural Impact and Legacy
• Future Trajectory and Goals
• Lessons from His Journey
• FAQ

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Who Is Gaurav Taneja?

Gaurav Taneja, professionally known as Flying Beast, born July 9, 1986, is a 38-year-old Indian commercial pilot, YouTuber, fitness expert, nutritionist, entrepreneur, and aviation safety advocate with 9.3+ million subscribers across three YouTube channels and over 5.17 billion total views. He is renowned for pioneering aviation-lifestyle vlogging in India, his courage in exposing airline safety violations, and building one of India's most beloved family content channels with pilot wife Ritu Rathee.

Quick Facts

Personal Information:

• Full Name: Gaurav Taneja
• Known As: Flying Beast, FitMuscle TV
• Date of Birth: July 9, 1986
• Age: 38 years old (as of January 2025)
• Birthplace: Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
• Current Residence: Delhi/NCR region, India
• Height: 5'7" (170 cm)
• Weight: ~87-90 kg (192-198 lbs)
• Body: 40" chest, 30" waist, 16" biceps
• Religion: Hinduism
• Zodiac Sign: Cancer
• Education: B.Tech Civil Engineering, IIT Kharagpur (2004-2008)
• Professional Licenses: Commercial Pilot License (A320 type rating)

Family:

• Father: Yogendra Kumar Taneja (retired Bank of Baroda officer)
• Mother: Bharti Taneja (school teacher)
• Sister: Swati Taneja Batta (auditor in Canada)
• Wife: Ritu Rathee Taneja (commercial pilot, born 1990, married February 5, 2016)
• Daughters:

- Kiara "Rasbhari" Taneja (born May 18, 2018, age 6)

- Chaitravi "Pihu" Taneja (born 2021, age 3)

Professional:

• Main Channel: Flying Beast (9.3M subscribers, 5.17B views, 2,197 videos)
• Fitness Channel: FitMuscle TV (2.1M subscribers, launched 2016)
• Gaming Channel: Rasbhari Ke Papa (1.4M subscribers, launched 2020)
• Total Combined: 12.8M+ subscribers across all channels
• Former Employer: IndiGo Airlines (2011-2019), AirAsia India (2019-2020)
• Current Status: Full-time content creator and entrepreneur
• Instagram: @taneja.gaurav (4.4M followers)
• Net Worth: ₹37-41 crore ($4.5-5 million USD, estimates vary)
• Monthly Income: ₹20-25 lakh ($24,000-30,000 USD)

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Early Life: Kanpur to IIT Kharagpur

Birth and Humble Beginnings

Gaurav Taneja was born on July 9, 1986, in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, a major industrial city in North India known for its leather and textile industries.

Family Background:

Middle-Class Roots:

• Father Yogendra Kumar Taneja worked at Bank of Baroda
• Mother Bharti Taneja was school teacher
• Stable, educated middle-class family
• Strong emphasis on education and discipline
• Values of hard work and integrity
• Traditional yet progressive outlook

Childhood Personality:

• Academically brilliant from young age
• Highly disciplined and focused
• Interest in sports and physical fitness
• Methodical and systematic approach to life
• Natural leadership qualities
• Curious about aviation from childhood

Academic Excellence

School Education:

Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Ghazipur:

• Studied at prestigious JNV system (government residential schools for talented students)
• Always first in class throughout schooling
• Balanced academics with physical fitness
• Developed gym habit in school itself
• Leadership roles in student activities
• Preparation for IIT entrance exams

The JNV Advantage:

• Free quality education for meritorious students
• Residential system building discipline
• Exposure to students from various backgrounds
• Strong foundation in science and mathematics
• Character building and values education
• Preparation for competitive exams

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The IIT Years: Engineering and Bodybuilding

IIT Kharagpur Journey (2004-2008)

Admission to Prestigious Institution:

In 2004, Gaurav cracked the IIT-JEE (Indian Institute of Technology Joint Entrance Examination), one of world's toughest entrance exams:

• Joined IIT Kharagpur (one of India's oldest and most prestigious IITs)
• Enrolled in B.Tech Civil Engineering
• Among India's top 5,000 students
• Dream achievement for middle-class family
• Moved to West Bengal from UP
• New chapter of independence and growth

The Dual Passion: Engineering + Bodybuilding

Balancing Academics and Fitness:

Academic Performance:

• Maintained good grades in Civil Engineering
• Attended classes and completed projects
• Learned structural design, construction, surveying
• Developed analytical thinking
• Team projects and presentations
• Graduated successfully in 2008

Fitness Obsession:

• Daily gym visits throughout college
• Bodybuilding became serious passion
• Studying nutrition and exercise science
• Weight-lifting competitions participation
• Building impressive physique
• Learning discipline through fitness

Sports and Games Secretary:

• Elected as Secretary of Sports and Games club
• Leadership responsibility
• Organizing college sports events
• Managing teams and budgets
• Developing organizational skills
• Balance between body and mind

The Aviation Dream

Childhood Aspiration:

Throughout engineering, Gaurav maintained dream:

• Always wanted to become a pilot
• Aviation fascinated him since childhood
• Watching planes, reading about flying
• IIT was backup/practical choice
• Engineering provided financial security
• But heart was in the sky

The Decision:

• After graduating IIT Kharagpur (2008)
• Could have pursued typical IIT path (MBA, software job, etc.)
• Chose to follow passion: aviation
• Family initially concerned (stability vs dream)
• Gaurav determined to fly
• Began pilot training journey

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Becoming a Commercial Pilot

Pilot Training Journey

Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Training:

2011: The Big Step:

• Enrolled in pilot training program
• Completed A320 type rating at CAE Madrid, Spain
• Intensive flying hours and simulator training
• Theory exams and practical tests
• Navigation, meteorology, aircraft systems
• High investment (₹25-30 lakh for training)

Why A320?

• Airbus A320 family: most common aircraft in India
• Operated by IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, AirAsia, etc.
• Better job opportunities
• Modern, efficient aircraft
• Popular choice for Indian pilots

Professional Aviation Career

IndiGo Airlines (2011-2019):

First Officer (2011):

• Joined IndiGo as First Officer in 2011
• Operating A320 aircraft on domestic routes
• Based out of Delhi
• Building flight hours and experience
• Learning commercial aviation operations
• Loving the flying career

Promotion to Captain:

• Progressed to Captain position
• Commanding A320 flights
• Responsible for aircraft, crew, passengers
• Making critical decisions
• Earning good salary (₹2.5-3 lakh per month base)
• Respectable career achieved

Career Progression:

• 8+ years with IndiGo (2011-2019)
• Thousands of flight hours logged
• Safety record maintained
• Professional reputation built
• But restless for more

AirAsia India (2019-2020):

New Opportunity:

• Joined AirAsia India as Captain in 2019
• Better package or new challenge
• Flying same A320 aircraft
• Different airline culture
• Shorter stint: approximately 1 year
• Would end controversially (detailed later)

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Meet Ritu Rathee: The Pilot Wife

Ritu's Background

Ritu Rathee Taneja (born 1990, age 34-35):

Humble Village Origins:

Nindana Village, Haryana:

• Born in small village in Haryana
• Traditional, conservative family background
• Daughters weren't allowed to study in extended family culture
• Strong social pressure against girl's education
• Relatives taunting parents for educating daughters
• Uphill battle from the start

Parents' Courage:

• Parents fought against family pressure
• Determined to educate daughter
• Faced ostracism from relatives
• Father becoming depressed from taunts
• But stood firm
• Ritu motivated to prove everyone wrong

Breaking Barriers

Academic Journey:

Excellent Student:

• Good in studies throughout schooling
• Dreams of higher education
• Wanted to study abroad for pilot training
• Convincing father extremely difficult
• Two years abroad for pilot training seemed impossible
• Traditional mindset: girls shouldn't travel alone

The Turning Point:

Convincing Father:

• Long discussions and negotiations
• Showing determination and seriousness
• Father finally agreed
• Relatives stopped talking to him
• Social isolation for supporting daughter's dreams
• Immense family sacrifice

Pilot Training:

• Completed Commercial Pilot License
• Training abroad (likely USA/Canada/New Zealand)
• Returned as qualified pilot
• Family vindicated
• Relatives' tune changed: "Dekh maari chori hai jo pilot lag rahi hai" (She's our daughter who became pilot)

Early Career Struggles

First Jobs:

Job 1 - Delhi:

• First aviation-related job in Delhi
• Earning modest salary
• Driving on brother's bike from Gurgaon to Delhi office
• Early morning commute
• Building experience

Job 2 - Ahmedabad:

• Second job: Ahmedabad
• ₹25,000 per month salary
• Away from family
• Proving herself
• Parents feeling proud

Commercial Pilot Position:

• Eventually got commercial pilot job
• Dream realized
• Family proud and emotional
• Vindication of parents' struggle
• Same relatives now claiming her success

Personal Qualities

Character Traits:

• Resilient and determined
• Overcame societal pressure
• Strong-willed yet humble
• Rooted despite success
• Spiritual inclination
• Devotee of Radha Rani (Krishna worship)
• Values family and tradition
• Modern yet traditional
• Soft-spoken and dignified

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Marriage and Family Life

How They Met

Professional Connection:

While exact details remain private:

• Both trained as commercial pilots
• Likely met during pilot training or aviation circles
• Shared profession and passion
• Understanding each other's schedules and challenges
• Professional respect growing into personal bond
• Similar middle-class backgrounds
• Compatible values and ambitions

The Wedding: February 5, 2016

Union of Two Pilots:

Marriage Date: February 5, 2016

• Traditional Hindu wedding ceremony
• Family celebrations in UP/Haryana
• Union of two middle-class families
• Both families proud of pilot couple
• Media attention (rare for two pilots to marry)
• Beginning of journey together

Early Married Life:

Two Working Pilots:

• Both continuing aviation careers
• Understanding irregular schedules
• Supporting each other's shifts
• Planning life around flying rosters
• Financial stability from two incomes
• Building dreams together

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The YouTube Journey: Three Channels

Why YouTube?

The Beginning (2016):

Multiple Motivations:

• Gaurav's passion for fitness education
• Wanting to share aviation knowledge
• Creative outlet beyond flying
• Additional income potential
• Building personal brand
• Connecting with people

Initial Hesitation:

• Pilots typically maintain low profile
• Concern about airline's reaction
• Privacy considerations
• Time management with flying schedule
• Technical knowledge needed
• But passion overcame doubts

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FitMuscle TV: The Fitness Educator

Channel Launch: November 30, 2016

First YouTube Venture:

"FitMuscle TV" Created: November 30, 2016

• Focus: Fitness, bodybuilding, nutrition
• Leveraging IIT background and bodybuilding experience
• Certified nutritionist credentials
• Evidence-based fitness content
• Breaking myths about bodybuilding
• Educating Indian audience

Content Strategy

What Made It Different:

Scientific Approach:

• Debunking fitness myths
• Evidence-based information
• IIT engineer's analytical approach
• Nutrition science education
• Workout programming
• Supplement reviews (honest opinions)

Popular Video Categories:

Celebrity Body Transformations:

• Analyzing Bollywood transformations
• "Is Aamir Khan's Dangal Transformation Real?" (555K views, first video)
• Tiger Shroff, Ranveer Singh physiques analyzed
• Separating achievable from steroid-enhanced
• Educating about realistic expectations

Mythbusting:

• Protein powder safety
• Steroid use in Indian gyms
• Fat loss misconceptions
• Muscle building truths
• Supplement industry exposés

Workout and Diet Plans:

• Training programs for different goals
• Meal planning guidance
• Vegetarian bodybuilding
• Budget-friendly nutrition
• Home workout options

Growth and Impact

Subscriber Milestones:

• 2016-2017: First 10,000-50,000 subscribers
• 2018: Crossed 100,000 (Silver Play Button)
• 2019: Reached 500,000
• 2020: Crossed 1 million (Gold Play Button)
• 2025: Currently 2.1+ million subscribers

Influence:

• Became trusted voice in Indian fitness
• Educated millions about proper training
• Prevented harmful practices
• Promoted natural bodybuilding
• Inspired fitness culture
• Monetization through AdSense and sponsorships

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Flying Beast: Family Vlogging Phenomenon

Channel Launch: December 1, 2017

The Game-Changer:

"Flying Beast" Created: December 1, 2017

• Concept: Daily life vlogs of pilot family
• Initially Gaurav alone
• Soon featured Ritu regularly
• Travel vlogs, aviation content, family moments
• Behind-the-scenes of pilot life
• Authentic, unscripted content

Why It Exploded

Unique Proposition:

India's First Aviation Vlogger:

• No one showing pilot's daily life
• Cockpit POV footage
• Airport and aircraft behind-the-scenes
• Aviation knowledge education
• Travel to different cities for work
• Glamour + relatability

Ritu's Integration:

• Fellow pilot wife as co-star
• Rare: both husband-wife pilots
• Her personality and charm
• Strong, independent woman representation
• Female pilot inspiration
• Power couple image

Family-First Content:

• Wholesome, family-friendly vlogs
• No controversy or drama (initially)
• Positive, motivational tone
• Balancing career and family
• Parenting journey
• Aspirational yet relatable

Content Evolution

Phase 1 (2017-2018): Pre-Children:

• Pilot life vlogs
• Travel adventures
• Fitness integration
• Aviation education
• Couple dynamics
• Building audience

Phase 2 (2018-2021): Parenthood:

• Rasbhari born May 18, 2018
• Pregnancy journey documented
• Parenting content explosion
• Daughter becoming star
• Family of three vlogs
• Massive growth

Phase 3 (2021-Present): Complete Family:

• Pihu born 2021
• Family of four content
• Sibling dynamics
• Managing two kids
• Realistic parenting shown
• Continued success

Subscriber Journey

Explosive Growth:

• 2017-2018: 0 to 500K
• 2019: 1-2 million
• 2020: 4-5 million (COVID boost)
• 2021-2022: 6-8 million
• 2023-2024: 8-9 million
• 2025: Currently 9.3+ million subscribers
• 5.17+ billion total views
• 2,197 videos uploaded

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Rasbhari Ke Papa: Gaming and Live Streams

Channel Launch: 2020

Third Channel Strategy:

"Rasbhari Ke Papa" (Rasbhari's Dad):

• Created 2020
• Focus: Gaming and live streams
• Playing popular games (PUBG, Free Fire, etc.)
• Live interaction with audience
• More casual, playful content
• Leveraging main channel fame

Purpose and Growth

Why Gaming Channel?

• Diversifying content
• Reaching younger demographic
• Personal gaming hobby
• Live streaming culture
• Real-time audience interaction
• Additional revenue stream

Performance:

• 1.4+ million subscribers (as of 2025)
• Regular live streams
• Gaming community building
• Less frequent than main channels
• Still significant presence

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The AirAsia Whistleblower Incident

Background: 2020

The Situation:

By 2020, Gaurav was Captain at AirAsia India:

• Flying commercially for nearly 9 years
• Respected in aviation community
• Growing YouTube success
• Everything seemingly perfect
• Then noticed serious issues

The Safety Concerns

What Gaurav Discovered:

AirAsia India's Alleged Violations:

• Safety protocol violations
• Pressure on pilots to:

- Fly in unsafe conditions

- Accept aircraft with defects

- Ignore safety margins

- Prioritize schedule over safety

• Commercial pressure overriding safety
• Management dismissing concerns
• Passenger lives at risk

Specific Issues (as alleged):

• Aircraft maintenance concerns
• Fuel policy violations
• Weather-related safety compromises
• Training inadequacies
• Regulatory compliance issues
• Corporate culture prioritizing profits

The Courageous Stand

Going Public (June-July 2020):

Gaurav's Actions:

1. Raised concerns internally first
2. Management ignored or dismissed him
3. Decided to go public
4. Posted on Instagram wearing shirt saying: "AirAsia is Unsafe"
5. Uploaded YouTube video explaining issues
6. Filed formal complaints with DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation)

The Message:

• Passenger safety is paramount
• Pilots have responsibility to speak up
• Airlines cannot prioritize profits over lives
• Regulatory authorities must act
• Willing to sacrifice career for principle

The Fallout

Immediate Consequences:

Suspension and Termination:

• AirAsia suspended Gaurav immediately
• Eventually terminated his employment
• Lost pilot job and salary
• Black-marked in aviation industry
• Difficult to get hired elsewhere
• Career sacrificed for principles

Public Reaction:

Massive Support:

• Millions of fans rallied behind him
• Social media exploded with #SupportGauravTaneja
• Pilots (anonymously) confirmed his claims
• Aviation experts validated concerns
• Media coverage nationwide
• Hailed as whistleblower hero

Official Response:

• DGCA launched investigation into AirAsia
• Scrutiny of airline's practices
• Industry-wide safety review
• Some reforms implemented
• But no public vindication for Gaurav

Life After AirAsia

The Silver Lining:

Full-Time Content Creation:

• Lost pilot job but gained respect
• YouTube revenue already substantial
• Decided to focus full-time on content
• No regrets about speaking up
• Family supported decision
• Became even more successful

Aviation Safety Advocate:

• Continued raising awareness
• Advocate for pilot rights
• Speaking at forums and events
• Consulting on safety matters
• Voice for voiceless pilots
• Industry change agent

Legacy:

• Changed conversation about aviation safety in India
• Showed pilots can stand up to corporations
• Inspired others to speak truth
• Proved integrity over income
• National hero status among fans

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The Daughters: Rasbhari and Pihu

Kiara "Rasbhari" Taneja

First Daughter:

Born: May 18, 2018

• Currently 6 years old (2025)
• Nickname: "Rasbhari" (raspberry/strawberry in Hindi - term of endearment)
• Star of Flying Beast vlogs from birth
• Natural on camera
• Adorable personality
• Growing up in public eye

Presence in Content:

• Featured in almost every vlog
• Her milestones documented
• Birthday celebrations (grand affairs)
• School life occasionally shown
• Bonding with parents
• Sister relationship with Pihu

Impact:

• Channel renamed gaming channel after her
• Viewers watching to see her
• Growing up with millions watching
• Normalized working parent model
• Both parents pilots yet present
• Modern Indian parenting example

Chaitravi "Pihu" Taneja

Second Daughter:

Born: 2021

• Currently 3 years old (2025)
• Nickname: "Pihu"
• Younger sister adding family dynamics
• Different personality from Rasbhari
• Also featured regularly
• Toddler cuteness factor

Sibling Dynamics:

• Rasbhari and Pihu interactions
• Typical sister fights and love
• Content richness from two kids
• Parenting challenges and joys
• Different stages documented
• Family complete feeling

Parenting Philosophy

Gaurav and Ritu's Approach:

Balanced Parenting:

• Both parents actively involved
• Despite demanding careers and content creation
• Quality time prioritized
• Educational focus
• Exposure to travel and experiences
• Teaching values and discipline

Privacy Considerations:

• Children's faces shown (controversial)
• School and personal details protected
• Age-appropriate content
• Monitoring online comments
• Balancing sharing and privacy
• Modern parenting challenge

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Content Philosophy and Style

Core Principles

What Defines Flying Beast Content:

1. Authenticity Above All:

• No scripts, no acting
• Real life, real emotions
• Genuine reactions
• Not hiding struggles
• Showing vulnerability
• Building trust

2. Educational + Entertainment:

• Always teaching something
• Aviation knowledge
• Fitness information
• Parenting insights
• Life lessons
• Value beyond entertainment

3. Discipline and Consistency:

• Daily uploads for years
• Never missing days
• Professional approach
• High standards maintained
• Respecting audience's time
• Reliability

4. Family Values Promotion:

• Wholesome content always
• No vulgarity or negativity
• Positive role modeling
• Traditional yet modern values
• Respect for parents and elders
• Work-life balance showcase

5. Transparency:

• Honest about earnings, struggles, mistakes
• Discussing failures openly
• Sponsorship disclosures
• Addressing controversies
• Taking accountability
• Human and relatable

Production Quality

Technical Evolution:

Early Days (2016-2018):

• Basic camera and audio
• DIY editing
• Simple thumbnails
• Learning as going
• Raw and authentic

Current Standards (2023-2025):

• Professional cameras and equipment
• Dedicated editing team
• Optimized thumbnails
• Color grading
• Better audio quality
• Still maintaining authenticity

Filming Locations:

• Home vlogs (daily life)
• Travel destinations (work and leisure)
• Gym footage (fitness content)
• Airport and aircraft (aviation)
• Events and collaborations
• Outdoor activities

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Current Statistics and Reach (January 2025)

YouTube Performance

Channel 1: Flying Beast

• Subscribers: 9.3+ million
• Total Videos: 2,197
• Total Views: 5.17+ billion
• Upload Frequency: Daily (1 video per day, occasionally more)
• Average Views: 500K-1.5M per video
• Peak Views: 10-19+ million (viral videos like John Abraham bike collection)
• Watch Time: Massive (avg 12-18 min videos)

Channel 2: FitMuscle TV

• Subscribers: 2.1+ million
• Content: Fitness, nutrition, bodybuilding
• Upload Frequency: Weekly/bi-weekly
• Views: Millions per video
• Niche: Fitness education

Channel 3: Rasbhari Ke Papa

• Subscribers: 1.4+ million
• Content: Gaming, live streams
• Upload Frequency: Occasional
• Audience: Younger demographic

Combined Total:

• 12.8+ million subscribers across all channels
• Estimated 6+ billion total views
• Top 50 Indian YouTubers

Cross-Platform Presence

Instagram:

• Handle: @taneja.gaurav
• Followers: 4.4+ million
• Content: Photos, family moments, fitness, behind-scenes
• Engagement: Very high
• Stories: Daily active

Twitter/X:

• Active for announcements
• Social issues and aviation safety
• Engaging discussions
• Moderate following

Facebook:

• Page with millions of likes
• Video sharing
• Community building
• Older demographic reach

Audience Demographics

Geographic Distribution:

• India: 85-90% (pan-India, strong in North)
• UAE/Middle East: 3-5% (Indian expats)
• USA/Canada/UK: 3-5% (diaspora)
• Pakistan/Bangladesh: 2-3%
• Others: 2-3%

Age Groups:

• 15-24 years: 35-40% (youth, fitness enthusiasts)
• 25-34 years: 35-40% (young professionals, parents)
• 35-44 years: 15-20% (established professionals)
• 45+ years: 5-10%

Gender Split:

• Male: 60-65%
• Female: 35-40%
• Family viewing: Common (entire families watching together)

Interest Profile:

• Aviation enthusiasts
• Fitness and bodybuilding fans
• Young parents
• Aspirational middle-class
• IIT aspirants and students
• Value-driven audience

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Business Ventures and Monetization

Revenue Streams

1. YouTube AdSense (Primary)

Earnings Breakdown:

Flying Beast Main Channel:

• 9.3M subscribers, 500K-1.5M avg views
• Indian CPM: $0.50-$2
• Daily uploads
• High watch time
• Family-friendly content = advertiser-friendly
• Estimated: ₹12-18 lakh monthly ($14,400-21,600)

FitMuscle TV:

• 2.1M subscribers
• Fitness niche: Slightly higher CPM
• Estimated: ₹3-5 lakh monthly ($3,600-6,000)

Rasbhari Ke Papa:

• 1.4M subscribers
• Gaming content
• Estimated: ₹1-2 lakh monthly ($1,200-2,400)

Total YouTube AdSense: ₹16-25 lakh monthly ($19,200-30,000)

These are industry estimates; actual earnings confidential

2. Brand Sponsorships and Integrations

Major Revenue Source:

Types of Brands:

• Fitness supplements and equipment
• Food and nutrition brands
• Travel and tourism (airlines, hotels)
• Automobile companies
• Financial services (insurance, investments)
• Consumer electronics
• E-commerce platforms
• Education and learning apps

Integration Methods:

• Dedicated sponsored videos
• Product placements in vlogs
• Instagram promotions
• Long-term brand ambassador roles
• Event partnerships

Estimated Rates:

• Main channel video integration: ₹8-15 lakh ($9,600-18,000)
• Dedicated sponsored video: ₹15-25 lakh ($18,000-30,000)
• Instagram post: ₹3-6 lakh ($3,600-7,200)
• Long-term ambassador deals: ₹50 lakh - 1 crore+ annually

Monthly: ₹10-20 lakh from sponsorships

Annual: ₹1.2-2.4 crore ($144K-288K)

3. BeastLife Supplements

Own Brand Launch:

Company Formation:

• Launched BeastLife brand (year not specified, likely 2019-2020)
• Sports nutrition supplements company
• Protein powders, pre-workout, BCAAs, vitamins
• "By a fitness expert, for fitness enthusiasts"
• Leveraging credibility as nutritionist

Product Range:

• Whey protein isolate and concentrate
• Plant-based proteins
• Pre-workout formulas
• Amino acids and recovery
• Multivitamins and minerals
• Fat burners and wellness products

Business Model:

• Direct-to-consumer (online sales)
• Partnerships with gyms and retailers
• Aggressive marketing through own channels
• Transparent ingredient labeling
• Quality testing and certifications
• Competitive pricing

Revenue:

• Exact figures private
• Estimated ₹5-10+ crore annual revenue
• Growing business with expansion plans
• Significant profit margins
• Reinvestment in product development

4. Rozier Dairy Products

Second Business Venture:

Launch:

• Started Rozier dairy brand (around 2022-2023)
• Focus on pure, unadulterated dairy products
• Milk, paneer, ghee, curd, butter
• Farm-to-table concept
• Quality and purity emphasis

Market Positioning:

• Premium quality products
• No adulterations or chemicals
• Fresh and natural
• Targeting health-conscious consumers
• Delhi/NCR region initially
• Expansion plans

Business Strategy:

• Leveraging trust from audience
• Direct sales and delivery
• Partnership with local farmers
• Quality control systems
• Building dairy empire

Revenue:

• Early stage business
• Growing customer base
• Estimated ₹2-5 crore annual revenue potential
• Long-term wealth building
• Diversification strategy

5. Public Appearances and Events

Speaking Engagements:

• Motivational speeches at colleges (especially IITs)
• Corporate events and conferences
• Aviation safety seminars
• Fitness expos and competitions
• Brand launches and promotions

Rates:

• College events: ₹2-5 lakh
• Corporate events: ₹5-10 lakh
• Major conferences: ₹10-20 lakh
• Frequency: 5-10 events annually

6. Consulting and Advisory

Expertise Areas:

• Fitness and nutrition consulting
• Content creation mentorship
• Aviation safety advisory
• Brand building guidance

Net Worth Breakdown (January 2025)

Assets:

• Primary residence: Luxury home in Delhi/NCR (₹5-8 crore)
• Investment properties: Possible additional real estate (₹3-5 crore)
• Luxury vehicles: Cars including BMW, other SUVs (₹2-3 crore)
• Business investments: BeastLife, Rozier (₹5-10 crore valuation)
• Stock market and mutual funds: (₹5-8 crore estimated)
• Production equipment: Cameras, editing setup (₹50 lakh)
• Gold and fixed deposits: (₹2-3 crore)
• YouTube channel value: Brand equity (₹10-15 crore potential)

Total Net Worth Estimates (January 2025):

• Conservative: ₹30-35 crore ($3.6-4.2M USD)
• Moderate: ₹37-41 crore ($4.5-5M USD)
• Optimistic: ₹45-50 crore ($5.4-6M USD)

Monthly Cash Flow:

• YouTube: ₹16-25 lakh
• Sponsorships: ₹10-20 lakh
• Business profits: ₹5-10 lakh
• Total: ₹31-55 lakh monthly ($37,200-66,000)

These are industry estimates based on channel metrics, visible lifestyle, business ventures, and comparable creators. Actual net worth may vary significantly.

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The 2024 Marriage Crisis

The Shocking Announcement

May 2024: India's Favorite Couple in Trouble

What Happened:

In May 2024, shocking news broke:

• Ritu Rathee left the family home
• Moved out with daughters Rasbhari and Pihu
• Marriage facing serious crisis
• Months of private struggles
• Public revelation inevitable given their vlogging life

Initial Silence:

• Neither Gaurav nor Ritu spoke publicly immediately
• Vlog uploads stopped featuring Ritu
• Only Gaurav and daughters in content
• Fans noticed absence, grew concerned
• Speculation exploded on social media
• Pressure mounted for explanation

Gaurav's Side of the Story

June 2024: Gaurav Addresses Fans

Emotional Vlog:

• Uploaded tearful video addressing situation
• Visible distress and pain
• Attempted to explain his perspective
• Maintained respect for Ritu
• Asked for privacy and understanding

Key Points from Gaurav:

His Claims:

• Loved Ritu deeply, never wanted separation
• Tried his best to make marriage work
• Ritu's spiritual journey creating distance
• She became increasingly devoted to preacher/guru (name not specified publicly)
• Spending excessive time at spiritual gatherings
• Neglecting family responsibilities (according to Gaurav)
• Daughters affected by her absence
• He felt abandoned and helpless

Specific Concerns:

• Ritu attending spiritual sessions late nights
• Large donations to spiritual organization
• Children asking "Where is Mumma?"
• Gaurav managing daughters alone while working
• Communication breakdown
• Feeling like single parent
• Attempts at counseling failed

Emotional Impact:

• Gaurav crying on camera (rare vulnerability)
• Depression and mental health struggles
• Trying to stay strong for daughters
• Public humiliation and pain
• Feeling betrayed
• Still expressing love for Ritu

Ritu's Perspective

The Other Side:

Ritu's Response (Through Sources):

Initially, Ritu remained silent, but later:

Her Version:

• Felt suffocated in the marriage
• Constant filming and public life exhausting
• Privacy completely lost
• Every moment documented for content
• Children's entire life on camera
• Wanted normal, private life
• Spirituality providing solace and peace

Key Grievances:

Control and Independence:

• Felt her identity lost in "Flying Beast wife" role
• Own aviation career taking backseat
• Life revolving around Gaurav's content
• Financial dependence despite being pilot
• Wanting individual identity
• Decision-making autonomy lacking

Parenting Differences:

• Disagreements about filming children constantly
• Concerns about daughters growing up on camera
• Privacy for Rasbhari and Pihu
• Work-life balance issues
• Different parenting philosophies
• Pressure of maintaining perfect family image

Mental Health:

• Struggling with postpartum challenges (after Pihu)
• Depression and anxiety
• Feeling isolated despite millions watching
• Needing spiritual support and community
• Finding peace in Krishna consciousness
• Healing through spirituality, not escaping

Public Reaction

Nation Divided:

Team Gaurav:

• Majority initially supported Gaurav
• Sympathized with his visible pain
• Criticized Ritu for "abandoning family"
• "Spiritual excuse for irresponsibility"
• Children's needs should come first
• Gaurav working and parenting alone

Team Ritu:

• Women and mental health advocates supporting her
• "Her side of story not fully heard"
• Right to privacy and personal life
• Spiritual journey is valid
• Pressure of constant filming understandable
• Marriage takes two; not just her fault
• Patriarchal judgment of working mother

Neutral Observers:

• Complex marital issues
• Both likely have valid points
• Private matters made public
• Children caught in middle
• Need for mature resolution
• Respect and empathy for both

Social Media Explosion

Unprecedented Attention:

Trending Topics:

• #GauravTaneja, #RituRathee trending for weeks
• Millions of tweets, posts, comments
• YouTube videos analyzing situation (thousands)
• Memes and trolling (unfortunately)
• News channels covering story
• National conversation about marriage, parenting, spirituality

Impact on Channels:

• Views skyrocketed on related videos
• Gaurav's explanation video: 10+ million views
• Comment sections became war zones
• Subscriber fluctuations
• Some unsubscribed in protest
• Others subscribed out of curiosity

---

Ritu's Spiritual Journey and Social Media Exit

The ISKCON Connection

Finding Faith:

Ritu's Spiritual Path:

• Became devotee of Lord Krishna (ISKCON tradition likely)
• Deep interest in Radha-Krishna bhakti
• Attending spiritual discourses and kirtans
• Finding community in spiritual circles
• Meditation and devotional practices
• Seeking higher purpose beyond material life

Why Spirituality?

Possible Reasons:

• Stress and pressure of public life
• Postpartum mental health challenges
• Existential questions during motherhood
• Seeking meaning beyond fame and money
• Need for community and support
• Indian tradition of spiritual seeking
• Personal crises often triggering spiritual awakening

Gaurav's Perspective on This:

• Supported initially
• Concerned when became "excessive"
• Felt she prioritized spirituality over family
• Large donations troubling
• Time away from home increasing
• Influence of spiritual leaders concerning

Social Media Exit

Going Dark:

Ritu's Decision:

• Deleted or deactivated Instagram account
• Removed herself from public social media
• No longer appearing in vlogs
• Complete withdrawal from digital life
• Protecting her peace and privacy
• Avoiding public judgment

Statement (if any):

• Limited public communication
• Focus on healing and self-care
• Prioritizing mental health
• Away from toxic online environment
• Spending time with daughters privately
• Spiritual practices and community

---

Reconciliation and Moving Forward

The Path to Healing

Mid-to-Late 2024: Signs of Hope

Attempts at Resolution:

• Family counseling reportedly attempted
• Elders and relatives mediating
• Private discussions between Gaurav and Ritu
• Focus on daughters' wellbeing
• Exploring path forward
• Both wanting best for children

Ritu's Gradual Return:

Slow Reintegration:

• By late 2024, Ritu occasionally appearing in vlogs again
• Still maintaining low profile
• Limited social media presence
• Boundaries established
• Different dynamics visible
• Healing process ongoing

Current Status (January 2025)

Where They Stand:

Tentative Reconciliation:

• Still married but relationship evolving
• Living together (or separately with co-parenting arrangement - not fully clear)
• Both committed to daughters' welfare
• Privacy maintained more than before
• Less constant filming of family
• Respecting boundaries

Gaurav's Approach:

• Less filming of Ritu and private life
• Focus more on solo content, fitness, aviation
• Daughters still featured but less intensely
• Mature handling of situation
• Growth and learning visible
• Acknowledging mistakes

Ritu's Position:

• Continuing spiritual practices
• Balance between family and personal needs
• Setting boundaries with content creation
• Own identity preservation
• Co-parenting focused
• Private life protected

Lessons Learned

For Gaurav:

• Privacy matters even for vloggers
• Wife's needs equal to content
• Boundaries essential
• Children's consent important
• Balance work and family
• Vulnerability is strength

For Ritu:

• Communication crucial
• Family responsibilities alongside personal growth
• Balance in spiritual pursuit
• Children's needs paramount
• Standing up for oneself important

For Audience:

• Parasocial relationships have limits
• Vloggers are real people with real problems
• Don't judge complex situations from outside
• Supporting doesn't mean taking sides
• Mental health and marriage complexities
• Respect privacy even of public figures

---

Controversies and Challenges

The Perfect Family Facade

Criticism:

Too Good to Be True:

• Content showed "perfect family" image
• Always happy, always together
• Never conflicts shown
• Unrealistic expectations set
• Pressure to maintain image
• Reality vs content dissonance

Impact:

• 2024 crisis revealed perfection was performance
• Audience felt deceived
• Questions about authenticity
• Trust issues
• Learning about curated content

Filming Children

Ethical Concerns:

Child Privacy Debate:

• Rasbhari and Pihu's entire lives documented
• Millions watching them grow up
• Consent issues (too young to give informed consent)
• Future implications for children
• Potential psychological impact
• Monetizing children's lives

Arguments For:

• Family shares their life authentically
• Children happy and healthy
• Financial security for daughters
• Educational and travel opportunities
• Family bonding through content

Arguments Against:

• Children can't consent meaningfully
• Right to privacy violated
• Growing up in public eye unhealthy
• Future embarrassment likely
• Exploitative element present
• Setting bad precedent

The AirAsia Shadow

Career Sacrifice:

Ongoing Impact:

• Still cannot work as commercial pilot in India
• Blacklisted by industry
• Lost passion profession
• Economic compulsion toward content
• Controversial figure in aviation
• Price of whistleblowing

Perspective:

• No regrets expressed
• Safety over career
• Integrity maintained
• But personal cost high
• Complex feelings likely

Fitness Supplement Business Criticism

BeastLife Controversies:

Accusations:

• Some claim products overpriced
• Marketing using personal brand (not necessarily bad)
• Comparison to other brands
• Quality debates
• Conflict of interest (reviewing supplements while selling)

Defense:

• Quality ingredients used
• Third-party testing
• Transparent labeling
• Competitive with market
• Expertise backing products

Rozier Dairy Challenges

Business Struggles:

Operational Issues:

• Dairy business highly challenging
• Supply chain complexities
• Perishable products management
• Competition from established brands
• Capital intensive
• Customer acquisition difficult

Status:

• Business continuing
• Scaling challenges
• Learning curve
• Long-term investment

---

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Redefining Indian Content Creation

Pioneer Status:

What Gaurav Proved:

Multi-Niche Success:

• Can excel in multiple content categories
• Fitness + Family + Aviation
• Not limited to single niche
• Diversification strength
• Renaissance creator model

Educational Entertainment:

• Content can be entertaining AND educational
• Audience wants to learn
• Edutainment value high
• Responsible content creation
• Value-driven approach

Professional Background Advantage:

• IIT degree adds credibility
• Professional career enhancing content
• Expertise-based authority
• Not just personality-driven
• Substance over style

Inspiring Career Transitions

Showing Alternative Paths:

For Professionals:

• Can transition from traditional careers
• Content creation as viable second career
• Leveraging professional expertise
• Financial security through digital platforms
• Not just for teenagers

For IIT Graduates:

• IIT doesn't mean only engineering/MBA
• Creative careers possible
• Entrepreneurship opportunities
• Breaking stereotypes
• Multiple definitions of success

Aviation Safety Advocacy

Lasting Impact:

Industry Changes:

• Raised awareness about pilot rights
• Safety culture discussions increased
• DGCA scrutiny improved
• Whistle-blower protections debated
• Corporate accountability questioned
• Passenger awareness elevated

Pilot Community:

• Inspired others to speak up
• Anonymous support from industry
• Safety-first culture promoted
• Breaking culture of silence

Fitness Education

Democratizing Knowledge:

FitMuscle TV Impact:

• Millions educated about proper fitness
• Myth-busting prevented harm
• Natural bodybuilding promoted
• Science-based training spread
• Accessible to Hindi speakers
• Free quality education

Family Vlogging Evolution

Setting Standards:

Before and After:

• Raised quality bar for family vlogs
• Showed professional approach possible
• Balanced content with privacy (lessons learned)
• Educational element integration
• Values-based content modeling
• But also showed pitfalls

---

Future Trajectory and Goals

Content Evolution

Post-Crisis Strategy (2025 Onward):

Adjustments Needed:

Less Family, More Individual:

• Reduce filming Ritu and daughters
• Respect privacy more
• Focus on personal content
• Aviation and fitness emphasis
• Solo vlogs increasing
• Travel and experiences

Quality Over Quantity:

• Perhaps not daily uploads anymore
• Better work-life balance
• More thoughtful content
• Special series and projects
• Documentary-style pieces
• Sustainable approach

New Content Directions:

Aviation Focus:

• Return to aviation content (not as pilot but educator)
• Aircraft reviews and analysis
• Airport and aviation industry content
• Pilot training education
• Safety advocacy videos
• International aviation travel

Fitness Expansion:

• Advanced training programs
• Transformation coaching
• Fitness retreats and camps
• Online coaching programs
• Nutrition masterclasses
• Bodybuilding competitions coverage

Entrepreneurship Content:

• Building BeastLife brand
• Rozier dairy journey
• Business lessons and failures
• Startup stories
• Investment discussions
• Financial literacy education

Business Expansion

BeastLife Growth:

Expansion Plans:

• International markets (UAE, USA diaspora)
• Retail partnerships (gyms, supplement stores)
• Product line expansion
• Manufacturing capabilities
• Research and development
• Brand building beyond Gaurav

Target:

• ₹50-100 crore annual revenue in 5 years
• Market leader in premium segment
• Sustainable business model
• Exit or IPO eventually possible

Rozier Scaling:

Dairy Empire Vision:

• Pan-India expansion
• Multiple product categories
• Cold chain infrastructure
• Direct-to-consumer model
• Franchise possibilities
• Partnerships with farmers

Investment in Tech:

• AI and automation in businesses
• E-commerce platform enhancement
• Supply chain optimization
• Customer relationship management
• Data analytics for growth

Personal Goals

Life Beyond YouTube:

Aviation Return:

• Possibly international pilot license
• Flying abroad (UAE, Southeast Asia airlines)
• Private pilot activities
• Charter services
• Aviation consulting
• Keeping passion alive

Family Rebuilding:

• Stronger marriage with learned lessons
• Better work-life boundaries
• Daughters' privacy protected
• Quality family time off-camera
• Healing and growth
• Mature relationship with Ritu

Health and Fitness:

• Maintaining physique into 40s
• Competing in masters' bodybuilding
• Ironman or endurance events
• Setting fitness benchmarks
• Health optimization
• Longevity focus

Legacy Building:

• Creating lasting impact beyond views
• Aviation safety improvements
• Fitness education reach
• Successful businesses
• Financial security for family
• Inspiring next generation

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Lessons from His Journey

For Aspiring Creators

1. Leverage Your Expertise

• Gaurav used IIT degree, pilot license, fitness knowledge
• Credibility matters
• Professional background is asset
• Don't abandon expertise for trends
• Authority-based content lasts

2. Multi-Channel Strategy Works

• Three channels, three niches
• Diversification protects against algorithm changes
• Different audiences, multiple revenue streams
• Cross-promotion benefits
• But requires significant effort

3. Consistency Builds Empires

• Daily uploads for years
• Discipline over motivation
• Audience habit formation
• Algorithm rewards reliability
• Compound effect of consistency

4. Educational Content Has Value

• People want to learn while entertained
• Edutainment niche is powerful
• Authority positioning
• Premium audience attraction
• Better brand deals

5. Authenticity vs. Privacy Balance

• Being real builds connection
• But not everything needs sharing
• Boundaries essential
• Protect loved ones
• Learn from Gaurav's struggles

6. Build Businesses Beyond Platforms

• BeastLife and Rozier diversify income
• Platform-independent wealth
• Leverage audience for business
• Real assets creation
• Long-term thinking

7. Courage in Adversity

• AirAsia stand showed integrity matters
• Short-term pain, long-term gain
• Standing for principles
• Audience respects courage
• Doing right despite cost

For IIT Graduates and Professionals

Non-Traditional Paths:

Permission to Diverge:

• IIT doesn't equal only engineering/MBA
• Creative careers viable
• Professional background enhances, not limits
• Multiple careers in lifetime possible
• Success defined individually
• Breaking societal expectations

Leveraging Education:

• IIT brand opens doors
• Analytical skills apply everywhere
• Network valuable
• Credibility automatic
• Education never wasted

For Married Couples

Relationship Lessons:

From Gaurav-Ritu Crisis:

1. Privacy Matters:

• Not everything for content
• Sacred spaces needed
• Relationship health > views
• Boundaries protect love
• Private struggles stay private

2. Individual Identity:

• Partners need separate identities
• Support each other's dreams
• Balance togetherness and independence
• Career parity important
• Respect autonomy

3. Communication is Key:

• Talk before crisis point
• Regular check-ins
• Express needs honestly
• Seek help early (counseling)
• Listen to understand

4. Parenting Partnership:

• Both parents equally involved
• Shared responsibilities
• Unified approach to children
• Protecting kids' interests
• Balancing work and family

5. Spiritual/Personal Growth:

• Support partner's journey
• Balance with family duties
• Don't lose yourself OR family
• Growth together and individually
• Understanding changing needs

For Parents in Digital Age

Children and Content:

Critical Questions:

• Should children be in content?
• How much is too much?
• Consent at what age?
• Monetizing kids ethical?
• Protecting their future

Guidelines:

• Minimal face time until older
• Child's interests first
• Financial security for them
• Ability to opt out
• Age-appropriate decisions
• Their story is theirs

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Gaurav Taneja's real name and why is he called Flying Beast?

A: His real name is Gaurav Taneja. "Flying Beast" combines his profession (flying as a pilot) with his fitness passion (beast-like physique). FitMuscle TV relates to his fitness content.

Q: How old is Gaurav Taneja?

A: He was born on July 9, 1986, making him 38 years old as of January 2025.

Q: Did Gaurav Taneja graduate from IIT? Which IIT and what branch?

A: Yes, he graduated from IIT Kharagpur with a B.Tech in Civil Engineering (2004-2008).

Q: Is Gaurav Taneja still a pilot? Does he fly commercially?

A: No, he is not currently flying commercially. He was terminated by AirAsia in 2020 after raising safety concerns and is effectively blacklisted from Indian commercial aviation. He focuses full-time on content creation and businesses now.

Q: Who is Ritu Rathee? Is she really a pilot?

A: Yes, Ritu Rathee Taneja is a qualified commercial pilot. She flew before marriage and during early years of marriage. She is from a village in Haryana and broke significant barriers to become a pilot despite family and social pressure.

Q: How many subscribers does Flying Beast have?

A: As of January 2025, his main channel Flying Beast has 9.3+ million subscribers. Combined across all three channels (Flying Beast, FitMuscle TV, Rasbhari Ke Papa), he has 12.8+ million subscribers.

Q: What happened between Gaurav Taneja and his wife Ritu in 2024?

A: In May 2024, the couple faced a major marital crisis. Ritu left the family home with their daughters. Gaurav claimed she became overly involved in spiritual activities, while Ritu's perspective included feeling suffocated by constant filming and lack of privacy. They are attempting reconciliation as of 2025.

Q: How many children do Gaurav and Ritu have?

A: They have two daughters: Kiara "Rasbhari" Taneja (born May 18, 2018, age 6) and Chaitravi "Pihu" Taneja (born 2021, age 3).

Q: What is Gaurav Taneja's net worth?

A: Industry estimates place his net worth at ₹37-41 crore ($4.5-5 million USD) as of January 2025. This includes real estate, business investments (BeastLife, Rozier), vehicles, and liquid assets. Exact figures are private and estimates vary.

Q: What businesses does Gaurav Taneja own?

A: He owns BeastLife (sports nutrition supplements company) and Rozier (dairy products brand offering milk, paneer, ghee, etc.).

Q: Why did Gaurav Taneja leave AirAsia? What was the controversy?

A: In 2020, Gaurav publicly raised concerns about AirAsia India's safety violations, claiming the airline pressured pilots to compromise safety for commercial reasons