Exclusive - Bigg Boss 19 winner Gaurav Khanna on Salman Khan's film offer, Anupamaa co-star Rupali Ganguly’s support, and how he plans to use his prize money

Bigg Boss 19's Gaurav Khanna, who emerged as the winner of the controversial reality show, joined Times of India TV for an exclusive chat. In the interview, he opened up about his journey on the show, a surprise film offer from Salman Khan, the unwavering support he got from his Anupamaa co-star Rupali Ganguly and team, and what he intends to do with the prize money he took home after winning the show. (Photo: Instagram)

Salman sir is known for pulling surprises, especially those little hand pranks of his. My heart was racing at that moment. I did feel a bit anxious, mainly because I never allow myself to become overconfident. In a show like this, everything is unpredictable. I also wasn’t sure whether the audience was actually connecting with me, since we had no direct interaction with them. Still, deep down, I believe that if your intentions are pure, people, from kids to elders will resonate with you in some way. (Photo: Instagram)

Throughout the journey, I tried my best to maintain grace. I’m not sure if I succeeded every single time, but I had promised myself that I wouldn’t indulge in unnecessary drama. No foul language, no random plate-throwing or messing around with clothes. I wanted to stay focused on my goals. Most importantly, I wanted to play on my own terms. My decisions, my timing, my way. I chose not to mould myself according to what other contestants expected from me, and I’m glad I stayed true to that. (Photo: Instagram)

I’ve always said in my earlier interviews that I tuned in to Bigg Boss only because of Salman sir, I’m a huge fan of his. I’ve watched Bigg Boss 13 as well, and there was a strong personal reason behind it. This season, I initially heard that his schedule might clash and he might not be able to host. That instantly made me lose interest. But the moment the team confirmed that Salman sir would be hosting, I immediately agreed. I genuinely wanted to meet him, and by God’s grace and the audience’s love, he announced that he would want to work with me. Now, I’m just hoping for the best. No stress, whenever he calls, I’ll be there. (Photo: Instagram)

Ab Anupamaa ne bola hai toh Kapdia kaise nahi karega...(Now, when Anupamaa herself has asked Kapadia to get the BB 19 trophy, so of course he would do it). But through this show, everyone also saw that when Akanksha tells Gaurav something, even he can’t refuse. So it became a double push. My wife told me Akanksha said, “If you’re going, then you better win.” So I went ahead for her as well. I think actions speak louder than words. (Photo: Instagram)

I’m not sure what I’ll do with the money yet. I’ll probably put it into some investment, but I definitely want to take my wife out somewhere nice. We haven't travelled much together, but this time we will plan something nice. (Photo: Instagram)

I would simply say, Jai Shri Ram and hope that everyone continues to share kindness the same way. If someone believes I am a fixed winner, they are more than welcome to give their opinions. I know I’ve put in my full effort, and I usually don’t bother responding to anyone’s comments. I’m not sure whether you have noticed, (I like Trolls kyunki kahin na kahin woh meri hi baat kar rahe hain) but I don’t mind trolls either. At least they are talking about me. If there’s no criticism, there’s no recognition, so I’m absolutely okay with it. (Photo: Instagram)

It genuinely doesn’t affect me. I’ve done enough meaningful work to stand on solid ground. I’m aware that people will always have countless questions, but if I pause to respond to every single one, how will I move forward and accomplish bigger things? Time is limited. I had just 15 weeks in that house, and for me, impressing those15 individuals never mattered, what mattered to me more was forming a close bond with 1.5 billion people watching from outside. If someone chooses to label me as “fake,” they are free to do so. That opinion doesn’t trouble me. What truly matters is what the audience feels. I’d rather the viewers see the real me. And if they were able to connect with my personality, the way I carried myself, or even my appearance, then that means more than anything. I’ve always believed that when you live in the public eye, the support of the public is what truly counts above everything else. (Photo: Instagram)

To begin with, I don’t see it as a weakness at all, it’s actually my strength. I became emotional because the question came from the press so innocently. I know the media person didn’t mean anything by it, and I never took it in a negative way. Few people from the media advised me not to respond since it was personal, but I felt I should. I wanted to share my thoughts openly. I adore my wife, and I’ve always believed that respecting her wishes is part of my responsibility as a husband. These days, very few men prioritise their wives’ choices over their own, and if even a handful of people feel inspired to do the same after hearing me, that in itself is an accomplishment I’m proud of. Some people questioned why I made such a statement, but I stand by it wholeheartedly. I’ve said it openly, I don’t want to start a family until she feels ready. A mother’s role is incomparable. If I’m meant to be a father, that will happen in its time, but I’ll wait for her without any hesitation."