A Grasim Mr India (1999) first runner-up title holder, Rakesh Bapat, made his screen debut together with Himanshu Malik in Anubhav Sinha's 'Tum Bin'(2001). After starring in a few average films like 'Dil Vil Pyaar Vyaar' in 2002 and 'Koi Mere Dil Mein Hai' in 2005, Rakesh failed to make a mark at the box-office and decided to turn towards television. He made his debut in the Zee serial, 'Saat Phere'. With his cute looks and talent, Rakesh earned instant recognition on the mini screen within a short span of time. Originally from Pune,  Rakesh has also done some famous ads for Colgate, Wrigley's chewing gum, SSI and Lux etc.