Mumbai: Television actor Gaurav Khanna was declared the winner of Bigg Boss 19 during Sunday night’s grand finale hosted by Salman Khan. The victory came with the season’s diamond studded trophy and a reported cash prize of ₹50 lakh. Friends and fellow finalists celebrated on stage as Gaurav soaked in the moment, hugged loved ones and thanked viewers for their support.
Soon after the announcement, the social media was ablaze with mixed reactions. A large section of viewers voiced disappointment, saying the season truly belonged to Farrhana Bhatt. Gaurav was praised by others because he was playing the game calmly and steadily within the house.
Farrhana’s Rise: From Secret Room Twist to Fan Favourite
Farrhana Bhatt’s story on the show reads like a comeback narrative many fans love. At the beginning of the season, she had a small social fanbase, but, having experienced an ups and downs 15 weeks later, her Instagram grew to more than two million. Early in the game she was unexpectedly voted out by housemates and moved to a secret room, a twist that kept her in the competition. She came back to the main house stronger and soon gained popularity as one of the most discussed participants.
Viewers could relate to her emotional candor, aggressive debates and readiness to discuss painful personal backgrounds. Farrhana Bhatt has shared her experiences of being dumped by her father and walking out of the house at a young age to forge her own life, and such instances of weakness made her earn a cult following that anticipated her to win the trophy.
Why Fans Think Farrhana Was the True Star
Farrhana Bhatt supporters believe that his show was full of raw emotion and high drama. She was often at the centre of conflicts and conversations, forcing housemates and audiences to pay attention. Many felt her journey and growth were more deserving of the title than a quieter, late blooming game.
Following the finale, the fans also claimed that the popularity of Farrhana Bhatt, which soared up in the season, should have resulted in the victory. Her voice, her regular confrontations and emotional ups and downs resulted in constant attention and made her the most influential person of that season throughout most of the show.
Farrhana Responds: Proud but Critical
In a candid interaction after the finale, Farrhana Bhatt described herself as satisfied and unbowed by the result. She claimed that she is the real star of the season and that her audience showered so much love on her than the trophy. On whether Gaurav deserved the win she was blunt, she did not think so. She admitted that television viewers might have perceived Gaurav in a new light and admired their decision, but claimed her own journey was the more remarkable one.
Gaurav’s Quiet Game Vs Farrhana’s Fire
Gaurav’s playbook stood in contrast to Farrhana Bhatt’s high intensity. He maintained a rather cool and collected character during the majority of his stint and displayed more of his tactics and character later in the season. Salman Khan praised Gaurav for his level headedness, and many viewers who voted for him said they valued restraint over spectacle.
This classic clash between subtlety and drama fuelled the debate online. Some viewers prefer contestants who create big moments, while others reward consistency and likeability.
What the Finale Means for Their Careers
For Farrhana, finishing as runner up will likely open doors across TV, OTT and film. Her meteoric rise in followers and fan engagement has made her a hot name for casting directors and brands. Even without the trophy, industry insiders expect offers to come quickly.
Gaurav leaves the show with a trophy, prize money and renewed visibility on national television. His composed image and loyal fan pockets could convert into acting assignments and presenting jobs.
Also Read | Bigg Boss 19 Grand Finale: Who Will Lift the Diamond Trophy on December 7?
