In 2018, the Telugu television landscape was abuzz with the return of the much-anticipated reality show, “Bigg Boss Telugu Season 2.” Premiering on June 10, 2018, on Star Maa, this season introduced several new elements, including a fresh host and the inclusion of commoners alongside celebrities, adding a unique twist to the show’s dynamics.
Winner of Bigg Boss Telugu Season 2 (2018): Kaushal Manda
After an extended run of 112 days, making it one of the longest seasons in the Indian Bigg Boss franchise, actor and model Kaushal Manda emerged as the winner. His journey was marked by resilience, strategic gameplay, and a strong fan following, often referred to as the “Kaushal Army.” Kaushal’s unwavering determination and ability to navigate the complexities of the house dynamics earned him the coveted title and a cash prize of ₹50 lakh.
Runner-up of Bigg Boss Telugu Season 2: Geetha Madhuri
The first runner-up position was secured by renowned playback singer Geetha Madhuri. Known for her melodious voice and numerous hits in the Telugu music industry, Geetha’s presence in the house was characterized by her calm demeanor and strong moral compass. Her journey resonated with many viewers, making her a formidable contender throughout the season.
Host: Nani
Stepping into the shoes of the previous host, Jr. NTR, acclaimed actor Nani made his television debut as the host of Bigg Boss Telugu Season 2. Known for his natural acting style and relatable persona, Nani brought a fresh energy to the show, engaging both contestants and viewers with his candid interactions and insightful observations.
Contestants List
This season featured a diverse mix of 18 contestants, comprising both celebrities and commoners, each bringing their unique personalities and backgrounds to the Bigg Boss house:
- Geetha Madhuri: Playback singer with numerous accolades in the Telugu music industry.
- Amit Tiwari: Actor known for his roles in Telugu films, often portraying antagonist characters.
- Deepti Nallamothu: TV9 news anchor recognized for her articulate presentation skills.
- Tanish Alladi: Actor with a significant presence in Telugu cinema, known for his versatile roles.
- Babu Gogineni: Human rights activist and rationalist, bringing intellectual discussions to the house.
- Bhanu Sree: Actress known for her work in Telugu films and television.
- Roll Rida: Popular rapper and singer, adding a musical flair to the house dynamics.
- Syamala: Television anchor and actress, known for her engaging hosting style.
- Kireeti Damaraju: Actor recognized for his roles in Telugu films and web series.
- Deepthi Sunaina: Social media influencer and actress, popular among the youth.
- Kaushal Manda: Actor and model, who eventually won the season.
- Tejaswi Madivada: Actress and model, known for her roles in Telugu cinema.
- Samrat Reddy: Actor and cricketer, bringing a sporty dynamic to the house.
Commoners:
- Ganesh: Radio jockey from Vijayawada, representing the common man’s perspective.
- Sanjana Anne: Model and beauty pageant contestant, adding glamour to the house.
- Nutan Naidu: Social activist from Visakhapatnam, known for his philanthropic work.
Wild Card Entries:
- Nandini Rai: Actress and model, who entered mid-season to shake up the dynamics.
- Pooja Ramachandran: Actress and VJ, bringing her media experience into play.
Season Highlights
Bigg Boss Telugu Season 2 was notable for several reasons:
- Inclusion of Commoners: For the first time in the Telugu version, commoners were introduced as contestants, adding a fresh dynamic and broadening the show’s appeal.
- Extended Duration: The season was extended by one week, running for a total of 112 days, allowing for more intricate developments and deeper contestant interactions.
- Controversies and Discussions: The season was rife with controversies, including allegations of biased hosting and debates over eviction processes, which kept audiences engaged and discussions lively.
- Fan Engagement: The emergence of dedicated fan groups, notably the “Kaushal Army,” showcased the show’s impact on viewers and the strong connections contestants formed with the audience.
In conclusion, Bigg Boss Telugu Season 2 successfully built upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, introducing new elements that enhanced viewer engagement. The combination of a diverse contestant mix, a charismatic host, and dynamic house interactions solidified its place as a significant chapter in Telugu television history.
