The story goes that Gilli Nata brought a big success to Bigg Boss Kannada 12, the winner so that the discussion of the Mandya Boy’s journey is not limited to the prize. In the post-finale exchanges, Gilli Nata told me about these intense feelings, Sandalwood superstars, and one question in everyone’s mind: Will he marry Kavya Shaiva?
The “Kankana Bala” Mystery: Friends or More than Friends?
The lighthearted banter between Gilli Nata and Kavya Shaiva was a highlight of the season. Gilli often taunted her with the nickname "Kavu," which led fans to produce viral “couple” cuts, even writing that the couple should marry. When asked about these fan-driven marriage proposals, Gilli Nata replied in such a characteristically witty but grounded way.
"How can I say this? It's all about time. Kankana Bala (wedding bells/destiny) has to align, that’s all,’ he said. But he immediately followed it up with a clarification to temper the rumors this latest: "Kavya Shaiva is a very good friend. She will always be one of my friends, that is all.”
Pinch-Me Moments: From Fans to Superstars
Gilli confessed that he still doesn’t know how to cope with the magnitude of the success he achieved. “After I won, they’d show me videos of the massive cutouts and celebrations outside. I can't believe it. I’m literally pinching myself to see whether it’s real, but even in that, I can’t cry--the pleasure is just too wonderful,” he said. He acknowledged that his initial goal was modest. I thought I'd get through 7 to 8 weeks and come back.
During the first few days, the cameras seemed like guns aimed at me. I was aware how to speak, how to act. But eventually, I kind of forgot they were there and I just became myself." Interactions with Sandalwood Legends. The winner story received the backing of both industry titans and the public.
Gilli expressed gratitude to Dr. Shiva Rajkumar (Shivanna) for wishing him well. ” “Shivanna talking about me is my biggest merit. I am not even equal to the dust on his feet,” he said humbly. He also credited his advice from seasoned actor Jaggesh, adding that his words were drawn from life experiences.
A memory comes to mind, with Darshan
Gilli said about his time on the sets of The Devil. “During that shooting, I remember Darshan Sir,” says the younger artist. He called out to me, and I thought he was calling someone else. In fact, he asked if I’d do “property comedy.” I was beyond relieved that he knew my style,” Gilli said.
The Road Ahead
With a ₹50 Lakh prize, a new SUV from Sudeep and ₹10 Lakh from Sudeep in his pocket, Gilli Nata is now trying to navigate the hard times in Sandalwood. He claims his relationship with Kavya is purely platonic but “Gilli-Kavu” fans believe destiny has a new plan too. Gilli, for now, is committed to staying true to the humble origins that won him 40 crore votes.
