A single step synthesis of carbon doped TiO2 (anatase) nanomaterials have been reported by using combustion synthesis using ascorbic acid and citric acid fuels. X-ray diffraction studies indicated the formation of nanosized anatase titania, whereas, transmission electron microscopy confirmed the formation of nanosized TiO2 anatase. The carbon doping into TiO2 matrix was identified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, whereas, thermogravirnetric study quantified the carbon doping. Diffuse reflettance UV-vis spectra indicated the band gap of less than 3 eV, a prerequisite for the photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. The N-2 adsorption studies revealed the high surface area (upto 290 m(2)/g) of the synthesized photocatalysts. Typical photocatalytic activity data indicated that the simultaneous removal of Cr(VI) and phenol is advantageous than degradation of the individual pollutants. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.