The countdown for the new season of India’s biggest reality show has quietly begun. Bigg Boss 19, hosted by Salman Khan, is gearing up to return to television screens soon. While the official announcement remains pending, fresh updates about the show’s format, schedule, and potential contestant lineup have surfaced, sparking curiosity among fans.
According to sources close to the production, Bigg Boss 19 is slated to premiere in August this year. Although an earlier date of August 2 was doing the rounds, that plan has reportedly shifted, and the final premiere date remains under wraps. The show’s production, managed by Banijay Asia, will air on Viacom 18 network channels. What makes this season different is the decision to begin with a television run before moving into its OTT phase after approximately three and a half to four months.
The upcoming edition also promises several twists in the game format. This season, the concept of Secret Rooms will make a comeback. Here, contestants placed at the bottom during nominations might find themselves isolated from the house while still observing the game’s developments. Interestingly, audience voting will hold more power this time. While housemates won’t directly nominate each other, it seems eviction decisions might, in some way, involve them. Weekly tasks will not just test physical and mental strength but also determine food supplies. If contestants fail to complete these tasks, they could go without ration for days.
A rumored theme called Rewind is expected to shape the structure of the show, bringing back some familiar features from previous seasons while experimenting with new rules. Though earlier reports suggested that this season would focus exclusively on actors, it appears that social media influencers and reality TV faces have also been approached.
Among the names making rounds, actor Ram Kapoor has grabbed attention. Known for his television and film work, Ram, along with his wife Gautami Kapoor, is reportedly considering participating. Dheeraj Dhoopar, widely recognized from Kundali Bhagya, is believed to have finalized his entry. Actress Alisha Panwar, remembered for Ishq Mein Marjawan, is another rumored name attached to the season.
After competing in Khatron Ke Khiladi 14, fitness influencer Krishna Shroff, daughter of Jackie Shroff and sister to Tiger Shroff, might be seen testing her game strategies in the Bigg Boss house. Meanwhile, businessman Raj Kundra, last seen on The Traitors, has reportedly been approached for this season as well.
Actress Anita Hassanandani, who recently made a comeback with Suman Indori, was rumored to be a part of the show. However, since she’s currently involved with another reality show, her appearance seems unlikely. Similarly, Munmun Dutta, famously known as Babitaji from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, has also been speculated to join, though her existing commitments make her participation doubtful.
Popular YouTuber and influencer Gaurav Taneja, known as Flying Beast, made headlines this year during Shark Tank India 4 and could be bringing his bold personality to the house. Actress Kanika Mann, active in Punjabi cinema, and Apoorva Mukhija, who’s fresh off The Traitors, have also been linked to this season.
Daisy Shah, Salman Khan’s co-star from Jai Ho, has neither confirmed nor denied her involvement, keeping speculation alive. Social media star Mr. Faisu, might also join the lineup.
Actress Khushi Dubey of Aashiqana fame, Arshifa Khan, and Tanushree Dutta are among other possible names. Actor Sharad Malhotra, a long-time contender for the show, may finally make his appearance. Mamta Kulkarni, back in the spotlight for various reasons, is also rumored to be entering.
Paras Kalnawat, from Anupamaa, hairstylist Micky, and YouTuber Purav Jha have been listed as possible additions. While none of these names are officially confirmed, this tentative lineup, gathered from multiple reports, hints at an eventful and unpredictable season ahead.
