Bigg Boss is not merely a reality show, it is also a chance to become a nationwide sensation and household name. Even after all these years and seasons, old contestants are remembered by viewers. While already-established celebrities get a chance to connect with fans, the show has also become a launchpad for many budding artists. Nora Fatehi, Sana Khan, Shehnaaz Gill and Ashmit Patel are among those whose participation in the Salman Khan-hosted reality show turned into a stepping stone for their careers. Ahead of Bigg Boss 20, here’s looking back at contestants who got their big Bollywood break.
1. Shehnaaz Gill
Shehnaaz Gill aka ‘Punjab ki Katrina Kaif’ remains one of the most talked-about contestants. Her journey from 13 to Bollywood is a reality-TV success story. The actress’ popularity soared during her stint on the show, where her bond with co-contestant Sidharth Shukla also became a major talking point. After the reality show, Salman Khan gave her a Bollywood opportunity in his family drama, Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan. This marked her Hindi film debut.
2. Nora Fatehi
Long before she became a global dancing sensation, entered Bigg Boss 9 as a wildcard contestant. Despite her relatively short stint, the O Saki Saki beauty managed to leave an impression on viewers. In 2019, she became part of Salman Khan’s Bharat. By then, Nora had already begun making waves as a dancer and performer but her appearance in the actioner added another major Bollywood credit to her growing career. Today, Nora is one of the most recognised performers in the Hindi film industry.
Bigg Boss Contestants Salman Khan Gave Bollywood Breaks To
3. Sana Khan
Former actress had already appeared in several South Indian films and Hindi projects before entering Bigg Boss 6, but her stint on the reality show significantly increased her popularity. She later featured in Salman Khan’s Jai Ho, which gave her an opportunity to work in a major Bollywood production. The 2014 film, directed by Sohail Khan, starred the diva in a supporting role.
4. Ashmit Patel
Ashmit Patel, brother of Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel, participated in Salman Khan’s 4. He was an established actor but gained newfound fame through his controversial stint on the reality show. Following his appearance, he featured in Jai Ho. This gave Ashmit an opportunity to be part of a high-profile commercial project led by one of Bollywood’s biggest stars. While he had already made his Bollywood debut years ago, his appearance in the social drama became another significant chapter in his career.
Bigg Boss contestants who starred in Salman Khan films
5. Armaan Kohli
Armaan Kohli’s story is slightly different. He was already a Bollywood actor before entering 7, however, his appearance on the reality show brought him back into the spotlight. After this, he returned to the big screen with Salman Khan’s Prem Ratan Dhan Payo. In the Sooraj Barjatya directorial, Armaan played the antagonist. The film marked a major comeback for the actor.
Apart from these, Santosh Shukla – who entered Bigg Boss 6 as a wildcard contestant – also landed a role in Salman Khan’s Jai Ho. Meanwhile, Abdu Rozik from BB16 was part of Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan.