Bigg Boss 19 Runner-Up Farhana Bhatt Slams Gaurav Khanna as ‘Undeserving Winner’
Bhatt Defends High-Drama Gameplay, Claims Winner ‘Hardly Contributed to the Show,’ and Reflects on Salman Khan’s ‘Shameful’ Criticism
Farhana Bhatt Questions Gaurav Khanna’s Victory
In an explosive interview following the Bigg Boss 19 grand finale, first runner-up Farhana Bhatt has ignited a fresh controversy by declaring winner and television star Gaurav Khanna an “undeserving winner.” Khanna, known for his calm and composed demeanour, clinched the trophy and the ₹50 lakh prize money in a closely contested finale, defeating Farhana. However, the runner-up’s outspoken critique has amplified the existing debate among viewers about the true measure of a Bigg Boss champion.
Speaking to the media, Farhana argued, “I feel Gaurav Khanna hardly contributed to the show. I don’t think he is a deserving winner.” She further elaborated that Khanna had played an “extremely safe” game throughout the season, avoided taking firm stands, and often remained passive when drama unfolded. She acknowledged his win might be due to his established TV audience, but maintained that he failed to deliver the necessary “content” or “chaos” expected of a winner in a high-stakes reality format. Farhana, whose own journey was marked by fiery confrontations and bold personality shifts, stated that she was satisfied with the massive audience love, viewing it as a greater prize than the trophy itself.
High-Voltage Fights and the Aftermath
Farhana’s journey was characterized by being the season’s content generator, picking fights, dominating debates, and even facing host Salman Khan’s constant reprimands. She reflected on the emotional toll of the criticism, revealing one particular comment from Khan—where he suggested he felt “ashamed” of her conduct—struck her “like a bullet” and made her question her worthiness to be on the show. Despite the low points, she credits that very criticism and her brief first-week eviction for triggering her to return as the “storm” she promised.
She vehemently defended her high-drama gameplay, suggesting that she was being authentic. Her strongest clash with Khanna occurred earlier in the season when she questioned his television stardom, prompting him to challenge her by stating he would win the show and prove the power of the medium—a prophecy that ultimately came true.
Life After the Finale: A New Beginning
Beyond the rivalry, Farhana shared a glimpse into her life post-finale, which she described as a personal transformation. She emphasized that the show taught her valuable lessons, especially about controlling her temper and improving her communication.
“I don’t have a trophy in my hand, but I am the star of this season,” she asserted, proud that many viewers have dubbed Bigg Boss 19 as “Farhana Bhatt’s season.” Her focus has now shifted to capitalizing on her newfound popularity, continuing her work as an actress and activist, and utilizing the immense love from the audience as motivation for future projects. Her parting shot at Khanna, however, ensures that the debate over the most deserving contestant will continue to dominate social media discourse.