Nikki Tamboli: The Bigg celebrity success story of 2021

NIKKI TAMBOLI’S POPULARITY SOARS AFTER REALITY SHOW

by ASJAD NAZIR

ONE of the big celebrity success stories of 2021 has been the remarkable rise of Nikki Tamboli. She received a wave of global support to finish third in India’s biggest reality TV show Bigg Boss and has since then seen her fanbase skyrocket. The talented actress is now looking to build on her whirlwind wave of popularity with more winning turns and not surprisingly has plenty of projects on offer, including the new series of Khatron Ke Khiladi.

Eastern Eye caught up with Nikki Tamboli, before the recent tragic death of her brother, to discuss her Bigg Boss 14 experience, what life has been like since she left the house, future hopes and uplifting inspirations.

What made you agree to participate in Bigg Boss 14?

It was a dream come true when I was offered Bigg Boss 14 as I have always been a huge fan of the reality show. I always wanted to be a part of it, so I did not even hesitate for a minute when I was offered it, as I could sense my dreams turning into reality.

How do you look back on the Bigg Boss experience?

There are many learnings and experiences that I took away from the Bigg Boss 14 house. Undoubtedly, I miss the house every day, but I have learnt so many things while inside there, which have proved to be so helpful for me in the real world. Those experiences have made me a better person. I had a severe OCD for perfection before entering the house and have successfully overcome that. That has made my life much easier, in that I can easily adjust in any given situation. Every weekend, whatever Salman (Khan) sir has taught us I think all those experiences are well versed in my mind, so Nikki after Bigg Boss 14 is a much better and more mature person, you can say.

Would you have done anything differently?

Yes, I would have if there would have been better guys in the BB14 house with me. I don’t mind double dating, but I did not find someone worth investing my time in. I like men with a strong and bold personality, like Sidharth Shukla, but I couldn’t get a good opportunity to bring that side of mine out to the audience. If there were some like-minded people with me, I would have definitely generated a lot more content to entertain the audience.

How did you feel coming third?

I felt great! Yes, I had the expectations of winning the first position, but even though it wasn’t me and Rubina won, I am genuinely more than happy for her, she deserved it. But I am grateful for all the love and adulation I got from my fans, as I always say, I am a fan of my fans. They went all out for me throughout the season and because of them I came third. Nobody knew me and I came from nowhere to secure that position, which in itself is a big deal and something not everyone can achieve. I had to face a lot of hardships for it, including depression and acute stress attacks inside the house. I overcame it! I feel lucky for whatever I have achieved and am extremely grateful for everything.

How has life been like since you left the house?

Life has been great after Bigg Boss 14. Many assumed that I won’t get work because of my behaviour in the house, but, touch wood, I am so overloaded with work that I haven’t got proper time to spend with my family since I’ve been out. I have been so caught up with work that I have not yet discussed my Bigg Boss journey with my family. Life has changed drastically! People now know me better and recognise me, especially by my voice. I feel grateful for all the love and adulation that I am receiving.

Which of the Bigg Boss 14 contestants will you remain in contact with? 

Rubina (Dilaik) and Abhinav (Shukla) are sweethearts. I think I’ll have a forever kind of bond with them. Also, Manu Punjabi is a sweet friend.

What is the plan going forward?

I have a lot of things on my plate right now. There are many surprises for my Nikkians. I am already shooting for a number of music videos, including one with T-Series.

What kind of projects do you want to act in?

Usually I am a director’s actor, but I do have my choices while performing. I prefer challenging roles like the ones performed by Priyanka (Chopra) in Barfi, Vidya (Balan) in Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Deepika (Padukone) in Chhapaak. I really admire Kangana’s (Ranaut) work. I saw her trailer of Thalaivi and was in awe of her work, and performance. I like to bring the best out of me when I am acting.

Whom would you love to work with?

I would love to work with Salman (Khan) sir. I have been a huge fan of both Salman sir and Shah Rukh Khan. Also, there are many south film industry actors such as Vijay and Karthik. Suriya is my favourite actor from the Tamil industry. I adore Sonu Sood and would love to work with him as well.

Tell us something about you not many know?

I am a very soft-hearted person. I am very humble and care about people, not expecting anything in return. I extend a helping hand whenever anyone is in need. I cannot see anyone going through trouble because of me and take a step back if anything like that happens, (laughs) but nevertheless, I love breaking hearts of guys. Also, everyone knows I love pets, but not everyone knows that I do work for the betterment of street dogs with some registered NGOs as well.

You have become a hero to many, but who is your hero?

Currently, my hero is Sonu Sood. I think he’s become the national hero. I really like people who inspire me; so right now, someone who inspires me the most is Sonu Sood and I can relate to him. He has selflessly helped so many people. But even after doing so much for everyone out there, he is extremely humble and doesn’t seem to stop. He’s doing more and more every day for the betterment of the people. So, he’s my hero as he’s the hero of the nation.

What inspires you?

When people come together and work for the betterment of society. Helping those in need is something that inspires me a lot. It inspires me to go out there and also help such people who do so much for others. As we can see, even in these Covid times, there are so many people out there helping others without caring about their own self. I think such selfless initiative inspires me the most.

Would you give a message for your fans?

I would love to thank them from the bottom of my heart for giving so much love and adulation to me throughout. I remember when I had tested positive for Covid-19 everyone was concerned about me. They made such efforts to make me feel better every day. So, as I say, I am a fan of my fans. I love my Nikkians. I really hope that I live up to their expectations every time. Also, there are a lot many exciting projects coming up for my Nikkians. I am sure they will love it. Lastly, coronavirus is out there so everyone please stay safe and follow all the Covid protocols.

Instagram: @nikki_tamboli