‘Bigg Boss 20’ Contestants: Viral Student Protester Rhiya Ahir To Join Salman Khan’s Reality Show?
Student activist Rhiya Ahir, who gained viral fame after stepping in front of a police van during a Mumbai protest, is in the running to join 'Bigg Boss 20'. Show creators launched the 'Fans Ka Faisla' voting initiative, letting viewers choose between Ahir and influencer Love Gill for a single contestant spot.
Rhiya Ahir, the model and student activist who became a viral sensation after stepping in front of a police van during a student demonstration in Mumbai, may be headed to television. The makers of Bigg Boss 20 have introduced a pre-season voting initiative, allowing viewers to select a contestant to join the reality series. Ahir is competing against influencer Love Gill for a single spot in the house, with the winner chosen by public vote ahead of the show's premiere next month. ’Bigg Boss 20’ Premiere Date: When and Where To Watch Salman Khan’s Popular Reality Show's 2026 Season.
Rhiya Ahir to Participate in ‘Bigg Boss 20’?
The streaming platform JioHotstar and broadcaster COLORS announced the return of the "Fans Ka Faisla" segment for the upcoming 20th season of Bigg Boss Hindi. The feature hands direct power to the audience to grant one contender an "Extra Jeevan Daan" (a lifeline), sending them directly into the show as an official contestant.
‘Bigg Boss 20’ Fans Ka Faisla Promo
In a recent promotional clip hosted by Salman Khan, viewers were instructed to cast their votes on the JioHotstar app to choose between Ahir and Gill. Voting remains open until September 2, and the winning contender will be officially unveiled during the show's premiere on September 6.
From Viral Protest to Reality Television Contestant
Ahir, a 27-year-old Mumbai-based model and actor, gained widespread national attention in July 2026 during a student-led demonstration regarding examination paper leaks. A photograph and video showing Ahir dressed in a grey hoodie standing firmly in front of a moving Mumbai Police vehicle to block it from transporting detained student protesters circulated rapidly across social media platforms.
The incident occurred near Dadar's Shivaji Park during demonstrations expressing solidarity with student movements across the country. Ahir refused to step aside until officers provided written documentation and clarification regarding the detention of the students inside the vehicle. The moment transformed her overnight into one of the most recognisable faces of the youth demonstrations.
Fans to Decide Between Rhiya Ahir and Love Gill
The prospect of Ahir entering the Bigg Boss house has triggered significant discussion online. While a section of social media users has expressed interest in seeing how the activist handles the high-pressure environment of reality television, others are rallying support for content creator Love Gill. Who Is Rhiya Ahir? All About Mumbai Actress Going Viral for Stopping Police Van During Student Protests.
With voting officially underway, the final decision rests with the audience, who will determine by September 2 whether Ahir or Gill secures the contested spot on Bigg Boss 20.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 25, 2026 02:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).