'Bheed mein nahi tha': Anupamaa's Rinku Dhawan ROOTS for Gaurav Khann as he lifted the trophy of Bigg Boss 19

Actor Rinku Dhawan, who is currently seen in the popular television show Anupamaa, continues to be remembered for her strong stint in Bigg Boss 17. Rinku shared her perspective on the Top 5, the shifting dynamics in the house, and what truly defines a deserving winner.

Rinku reveals that among the finalists, there was one contestant whose gameplay stands out for her — Gaurav. “I liked Gaurav, he is sensible. I liked his attitude,” she says. “He played on his rules. Bheed mein nahi tha. ‘I respond when I want to, not when you want me to’ — I resonate with this thought.”

According to her, individuality and control over one’s emotions matter more than performing for cameras. Reflecting on the division among viewers this season, Rinku says the audience itself has been torn. “This season was interesting because there were two kinds of supporters — one side vouched for entertainment, mudde, arguments and stands. The other side prefered contestants who offered less content but carry integrity and grace. Both sides were very strong this season.”

Like every season, eliminations sparked debates, and Rinku agrees one eviction didn’t sit right with her. “Mridul, for sure,” she says, adding that his exit felt premature and unfair.

He played on his rules. Bheed mein nahi tha. ‘I respond when I want to, not when you want me to’ — I resonate with this thought

- Rinku Dhawan

Speaking about the season as a whole, she points out a stark contrast to her own experience in Bigg Boss 17. With a laugh, she recalls, “It’s funny as it may sound… we didn’t have enough food. Huge difference. We were food deprived!” Beyond the humour, she also touches on the emotional and psychological patterns seen inside the house every year. “As it was in BB17, actually in that house, no one wants to listen. A lot of times people end up making a fool of themselves because they are just waiting to react, not respond.”

Given her experience, Rinku reveals what her biggest strength and challenge would be and she says, “My strength is that I don’t react the way usually expected. I respond the way required,” she says, highlighting the emotional maturity one needs inside the house. “The biggest challenge for me is opening up to strangers. That is something that doesn’t come naturally to me.”

When asked whether the show helps or harms careers, Rinku is clear. “Bigg Boss is the biggest reality show. It only gives positive impact once you’re out — if you use the platform well.” For her, the experience is about visibility, growth, and understanding oneself under pressure.

As the show came to an end, Rinku believes the true winner is not the loudest voice but the one who remains authentic. And in her eyes, that was Gaurav — calm, clear-headed and unafraid to stand alone.