The much-anticipated finale of Bigg Boss Telugu Season 8, hosted by Nagarjuna Akkineni, concluded on December 15, 2024, with Nikhil Maliyakkal taking home the coveted trophy. Nikhil, a Kannada television actor, was declared the winner after an intense competition that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Along with the title, he walked away with a cash prize of ₹54.3 lakh, cementing his place in Bigg Boss history.
A Season Marked by Intensity and Drama
Bigg Boss Telugu 8 featured a mix of intriguing personalities, unexpected twists, and fierce rivalries. The show started with 16 contestants and saw several wildcard entries, each adding unique dynamics to the game. The final five contestants—Nikhil, Gautham Krishna, Nabeel Afridi, Prerana, and Avinash—showcased grit and determination throughout their journey in the house.
The season was lauded for its engaging tasks, emotional moments, and strategic gameplay. Nikhil’s performance stood out for his leadership and consistency, while runner-up Gautham Krishna, a doctor-turned-actor, won the audience’s hearts with his calm demeanor and integrity.
Who Is the Winner of BB8 Telugu?
After weeks of speculation and intense voting battles, Nikhil Maliyakkal emerged as the champion of Bigg Boss Telugu 8. Known for his strategic acumen, Nikhil’s ability to handle conflicts and excel in high-stakes tasks made him a strong contender for the title. Despite being a non-Telugu actor, he managed to garner a massive fan base, breaking linguistic and regional barriers.
Runner-up Gautham Krishna, on the other hand, had been the favorite in pre-finale polls, leading to significant disappointment among his supporters when the results were announced. Many fans took to social media to express their discontent, with some alleging favoritism by the show’s producers.
Highlights of the Grand Finale
The grand finale was a star-studded spectacle featuring appearances by Ram Charan, who presented the winner’s trophy, and electrifying performances by former contestants. Host Nagarjuna reflected on the contestants’ journeys and praised their resilience and determination. Emotional moments unfolded as the finalists reminisced about their time in the house, with eliminated contestants sharing their perspectives on the competition.
Nikhil’s victory speech emphasized gratitude toward his fans and a commitment to leveraging this milestone for future opportunities. The show concluded with a montage of memorable moments, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next season.
Fan Reactions and Controversy
While Nikhil’s win was celebrated by many, it was not without controversy. Social media was abuzz with hashtags like #JusticeForGautham, as fans of runner-up Gautham Krishna accused the show of bias. Many cited Gautham’s consistent popularity in polls and his clean gameplay as reasons why he was the “real winner” in their eyes.
Allegations of favoritism and editing biases have raised questions about the transparency of the voting process. Despite these criticisms, Nikhil’s supporters defended his victory, pointing to his strategic moves and ability to adapt under pressure.
The Legacy of Bigg Boss Telugu 8
Despite the controversies, Bigg Boss Telugu 8 reinforced its position as a cultural phenomenon. The season saw a blend of entertainment, strategy, and human emotions, resonating with audiences across regions. While Nikhil’s win has added another feather to the franchise’s cap, the uproar surrounding the results highlights the intense engagement and investment of the show’s fanbase.
Looking Forward
As Bigg Boss Telugu 8 concludes, fans are already speculating about the format and contestants for the next season. For now, Nikhil Maliyakkal’s journey from a contestant to the winner of one of the most-watched reality shows in Telugu television serves as a testament to resilience and strategy. Whether one sided with Nikhil or Gautham, the season offered a memorable mix of drama and competition, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.