Kartik Aaryan was born as Kartik Tiwari on 22 November 1990 in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. His parents, Manish Tiwari and Mala Tiwari, are doctors. He moved to Mumbai to pursue an engineering degree at D. Y. Patil University while secretly pursuing his ambition of becoming an actor.
He made his acting debut with Pyaar Ka Punchnama (2011), directed by Luv Ranjan. His extended monologue in the film became one of his early trademarks and helped him gain recognition among Hindi-film audiences.
After appearing in Akaash Vani and Kaanchi: The Unbreakable, Kartik achieved major commercial success with Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2 (2015) and especially Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (2018). He subsequently established himself as a leading actor with films including Luka Chuppi, Pati Patni Aur Woh, Love Aaj Kal, Dhamaka, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Freddy, Satyaprem Ki Katha, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.
His performance in Chandu Champion (2024) further showcased his ability to take on physically demanding and dramatic roles. He continues to be active in Hindi cinema. In 2026, he is associated with projects including Naagzilla and the upcoming Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4.