The dust has settled after the grand finale of Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9, but conversations around fairness, compensation, and post-show opportunities continue to dominate public discussions. While the trophy has found its rightful owner, the aftermath reveals how the channel and makers are attempting to ensure a sense of social justice among contestants with very different backgrounds and expectations.
Commoners Walk Away Satisfied
Season winner Kalyan Padala emerged as the biggest beneficiary, both financially and symbolically. Walking away with a prize money of thirty five lakh rupees along with the winner’s title, Kalyan represents the classic Bigg Boss success story of a common man. With public support firmly behind him, he is now openly exploring opportunities in cinema, a dream that appears more realistic given the platform he has earned.
Third-place finalist Pavan also exited the house on a positive note, taking home fifteen lakh rupees. For many viewers, this felt justified, as Pavan has repeatedly spoken about his father’s ongoing tongue cancer treatment and the financial burden it brings. His prize money was seen as meaningful support rather than mere consolation.
Celebrity Disappointment and Emotional Gaps
In contrast, celebrity contestants Tanuja and Emanuel appeared visibly disappointed with their final rankings. Tanuja, who finished second, recently admitted that the runner-up position did not bring the emotional closure she had hoped for, especially with her father still unconvinced about her television career. Her belief that a trophy could have changed family perceptions reflects lingering emotional immaturity rather than professional failure.
However, industry insiders point out that Tanuja may not have lost out financially. With strong weekly remuneration, she is believed to have earned an amount comparable to the winner’s purse. Moreover, both the Bigg Boss team and MAA TV are reportedly keen on featuring her in multiple upcoming programs. Having already appeared in a cooking show, she may soon be seen in reality formats such as BB Jodi, and there are also rumors of film opportunities linked to Annapurna Studios, owing to her association with Nagarjuna.
Emanuel’s Grace Under Pressure
Emanuel, who finished in fourth place despite being a major TRP driver this season, handled the outcome with grace and composure. He publicly congratulated Kalyan while acknowledging his own disappointment as natural. With audience backlash questioning his low ranking, sources suggest the makers are exploring ways to compensate him through future projects. While BB Jodi was discussed, Emanuel has hinted at physical recovery concerns after sustaining a mild fracture inside the house.
Others Move On Contentedly
Finalist Sanjana appears content with her journey, having achieved her primary goal of reaching the finale. Financially stable and well-established, she is not actively seeking post-show compensation, though judging roles offered by MAA TV remain a possibility.
Meanwhile, former contestant Ritu could also benefit from the show’s extended ecosystem, with audience demand growing for a dance pairing with Pavan in BB Jodi.
Bigg Boss Telugu 9 may have ended, but its makers seem intent on distributing opportunity beyond the trophy. By aligning financial rewards, television exposure, and career prospects, the show and MAA TV appear to be crafting a broader sense of justice, ensuring that success is not limited to just one winner.
