Kalyan Padala Wins Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9 as First Commoner Champion
22 Dec 2025 2:27 PM IST22 Dec 2025 2:27 PM IST
The decision-making skills and discipline honed during his military service later became key assets during his stint on the show
Kalyan Padala holding the Bigg Boss 9 trophy.
Commoner Kalyan Padala emerged as the winner of Bigg Boss Telugu 9 during the season’s grand finale, hosted by Nagarjuna Akkineni.
Kalyan Padala’s background is rooted in service and discipline. Originally from Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, he was raised in a middle-class family and developed a strong interest in fitness and sports from an early age.
After completing his studies, he joined the Indian army, fulfilling his childhood dream to serve the nation. The decision-making skills and discipline honed during his military service later became key assets during his stint on the show. Throughout his time on Bigg Boss Telugu 9, Padala was recognised for staying away from unnecessary arguments and focusing on his own game. His approach earned favour with viewers, who appreciated his discipline and calm demeanour. The audience’s support helped him advance through the competition and ultimately win the show.
Kalyan, celebrated for his straightforward grit, beat out Thanuja Puttaswamy in the runner-up spot, with Demon Pavan taking third after grabbing a Rs 15 lakh briefcase for total earnings around Rs 25.5 lakh. The live finale on Star Maa and JioHotstar featured star appearances like Ravi Teja and emotional family reunions. Fans called it a caterpillar-to-butterfly journey, proving authenticity beats star power, with Kalyan's prize estimated at Rs 35-40 lakh plus a SUV car.
This season was notable for its theme, Commoner vs Celebrities, with Padala making history as the first non-celebrity to claim the title. His victory marks a significant moment for the format, as he outperformed both celebrity and fellow commoner participants to secure the top spot on one of Tollywood's most prominent reality shows. At the grand finale, Padala was honoured with the Bigg Boss. The season’s original prize money stood at Rs 50 lakh,leaving Thanuja Puttaswamy as the first runner-up and Pavan as the second runner-up.
During the winner announcement, Padala broke down in tears. Host Nagarjuna Akkineni congratulated him, offering best wishes for his future endeavours and praising his performance. Padala’s parents joined him on stage, expressing their pride. They mentioned that Kalyan has made them proud, and they would always cherish this moment for the rest of their lives.
This article is authored by Akanksha Sudham, an intern from Deccan Chronicle.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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