The eighth season of Bigg Boss, the Indian adaptation of the international reality show Big Brother, premiered on September 21, 2014, on Colors TV. This season introduced a unique aviation theme, with the house designed to resemble an aircraft, adding a fresh twist to the show’s format. The season spanned 104 days, culminating in a grand finale on January 3, 2015.
Winner of Bigg Boss Season 8 (2014): Gautam Gulati
Emerging as Bigg Boss Winner in the eighth season was Gautam Gulati, a television actor known for his roles in popular series like Diya Aur Baati Hum. His charismatic personality, resilience, and ability to navigate the complexities of the house endeared him to viewers, leading to his win. Gautam took home the winner’s trophy along with a cash prize of ₹50 lakh.
Runner-Up of Bigg Boss Season 8: Karishma Tanna
The first runner-up position was secured by Karishma Tanna, an actress and model known for her work in television and films. Her strong opinions and active participation in tasks made her a formidable contender throughout the season.
Host: Salman Khan
The season was hosted by Salman Khan, the Bollywood superstar who had been associated with the show since its fourth season. His charismatic presence and engaging interactions with the contestants added a unique flavor to the show, significantly boosting its popularity.
Contestants List
Bigg Boss Season 8 featured a diverse group of contestants from various backgrounds. Here’s the complete list:
- Gautam Gulati – Television actor.
- Karishma Tanna – Actress and model.
- Pritam Singh – Radio jockey.
- Ali Quli Mirza – Singer and actor.
- Dimpy Ganguly – Model and actress.
- Puneet Issar – Actor and director.
- Praneet Bhatt – Television actor.
- Sonali Raut – Model and actress.
- Diandra Soares – Model and fashion designer.
- Sushant Divgikar – Model and singer.
- Natasa Stankovic – Model and actress.
- Soni Singh – Television actress.
- Minissha Lamba – Film actress.
- Arya Babbar – Actor.
- Deepshikha Nagpal – Actress and director.
- Sukirti Kandpal – Television actress.
- Upen Patel – Model and actor.
Notable Entries:
- Ali Quli Mirza: Entered the house as a wild card contestant on Day 14, bringing significant drama and entertainment to the season.
- Dimpy Ganguly: Entered as a wild card on Day 36, adding a new dynamic to the house.
Format and Highlights
Bigg Boss Season 8 adhered to the traditional format where contestants, referred to as housemates, lived together in isolation from the outside world. They participated in various tasks, faced weekly nominations, and evictions were determined by public votes.
Some of the season’s highlights included:
- Aviation Theme: The house was designed to resemble an aircraft, with interiors mimicking an airplane’s cabin, adding a unique aesthetic to the show.
- Gautam Gulati’s Journey: His transformation from a misunderstood contestant to the audience’s favorite was a significant highlight.
- Karishma Tanna’s Gameplay: Her strategic moves and strong opinions kept the house dynamics interesting.
Finalists
By the end of the season, the top five contestants were:
- Gautam Gulati – Winner.
- Karishma Tanna – Runner-up.
- Pritam Singh – Third place.
- Ali Quli Mirza – Fourth place.
- Dimpy Ganguly – Fifth place.
Their journey in the house was marked by strategic gameplay, alliances, and personal growth, keeping the audience engaged till the finale.
Viewership and Legacy
Bigg Boss Season 8 garnered significant viewership, with its mix of drama, entertainment, and real-life emotions resonating with audiences. The season’s success further solidified the show’s format in India, paving the way for subsequent seasons. Salman Khan’s hosting was particularly appreciated for his empathetic approach and relatability.
Conclusion
Bigg Boss Season 8 was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing intense drama, memorable moments, and incredible performances by contestants. Gautam Gulati’s journey from a contestant to the winner was a testament to his resilience and connection with the audience. The season left a lasting impact on Indian reality television, and its legacy continues to inspire future seasons
