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Bigg Boss Telugu has reached an important milestone with its ninth television season, and when the OTT edition is included, it marks the franchise’s tenth season overall. As the show heads toward its grand finale, host Nagarjuna confirmed a key detail fans were waiting for the winner’s prize money will remain ₹50 lakh, the same amount that has been awarded in most previous seasons. While one earlier season briefly experimented with task-based prize money that reportedly went up to ₹56 lakh, Season 9 has chosen to stick to the classic format.
A Shift in Questioning Around Prize Money
In earlier seasons, contestants were often asked what they would do if they won the prize money. Many spoke about personal struggles, supporting parents, or buying homes. However, over time, controversies emerged when some winners were accused of making emotional promises such as donating winnings to farmers or cancer patients and later failing to follow through.
Perhaps to avoid such backlash and protect the credibility of the show, Bigg Boss changed the narrative this season. Instead of asking contestants about future plans with the prize money, they were asked a more direct and revealing question: how much of the prize money would you share with your fellow housemates if you won?
Bharani’s Answer Sparks Reactions
Bharani was the first to respond and kept it straightforward. He said he would share the money with Demon Pawan and Emmanuel, adding that Emmanuel would receive ₹20 lakh, more than anyone else.
Emmanuel wasted no time reacting, joking openly that he would “pull Bharani down.” Nagarjuna quickly turned the moment into humor, teasing Bharani about how he had saved Emmanuel earlier in the game and now seemed to be risking himself again.
Demon Pawan, Rithu, and a Costly Gift
Next, Nagarjuna called Demon Pawan and posed a playful yet pointed question if he won the entire prize money, how much would he spend on a gift for Rithu?
Pawan confidently replied that he would spend ₹5 lakh, leaving Kalyan and Emmanuel visibly shocked. The moment triggered laughter, sarcasm, and commentary from housemates, once again highlighting how central Rithu had been to Pawan’s journey in the house.
Thaman’s Special Appearance Elevates the Finale Week
Adding to the excitement, music director Thaman appeared as a special guest, bringing extra energy to the crucial final week. With Kalyan Padala already confirmed as the first finalist, attention shifted to deciding the remaining finalists through a high-stakes elimination process.
Four Finalists Announced
After a tense round of eliminations, Kalyan Padala, Emmanuel, Tanuja, and Demon Pawan were officially declared finalists. This left Bharani and Sanjjanaa battling for the final spot in the Top 5.
Bharani vs Sanjjanaa: The Deciding Moment
Bharani and Sanjjanaa were called into the activity room for the final elimination round. While Sanjjanaa appeared calm and confident, Bharani looked visibly anxious.
The task involved choosing boards hidden inside decorative bird wings one labeled “Finalist” and the other “Elimination.” Luck favored Sanjjanaa, who secured the finalist spot, while Bharani was eliminated just short of the finale week.
Mixed Emotions After Bharani’s Elimination
As soon as the result was announced, Emmanuel applauded enthusiastically, openly celebrating Sanjjanaa’s entry into the Top 5. The moment stood out, especially since Bharani had earlier promised Emmanuel a large share of the prize money if he won.
Tanuja, meanwhile, remained quiet, visibly emotional. Bharani accepted the outcome gracefully, apologizing if he had hurt anyone and wishing the finalists success.
In a touching gesture, Tanuja bent down to touch Bharani’s feet, seeking his blessings. Bharani blessed her and expressed confidence in her future, while Tanuja hugged him and subtly hinted at her determination to win the trophy.
Bharani’s Journey Video and Final Words
On stage, Bharani appeared composed and upbeat as his journey video was played, highlighting his strongest emotional connections inside the house. Looking at the Top 5, he remarked on how deserving and strong they all were.
When Nagarjuna asked him about forming or breaking bonds, Bharani chose positivity. He praised Sanjjanaa’s fighting spirit, called Demon Pawan mentally strong, acknowledged his journey with Emmanuel despite differences, and said Kalyan Padala had the qualities of a champion.
A Heartfelt Message for Tanuja
Initially hesitant, Bharani eventually spoke openly about Tanuja. He clarified his emotional connections, personal boundaries, and respect for the people he bonded with in the house. Wishing her a bright future, he even promised to attend her wedding and expressed his desire to see her lift the trophy. Tanuja responded confidently, assuring him that she would win the title.
Voting Opens to Decide the Winner
Concluding the episode, Nagarjuna celebrated the Top 5 finalists and announced that voting lines were officially open. He reminded viewers that the focus had shifted—from voting to save contestants to voting to choose the winner.