The much-awaited grand finale of Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9, hosted by Nagarjuna Akkineni, concluded on December 21, 2025, with high drama, star-studded performances, and emotional moments. Contestant Thanuja Puttaswamy emerged as the first runner-up, narrowly missing the crown but winning immense admiration and fan support.
Kalyan Padala was declared the winner, lifting the trophy and walking away with ₹35 lakh prize money. Meanwhile, Demon Pavan chose to self-eliminate, becoming the second runner-up and taking home a ₹15 lakh money bag offer.
Runner-Up Remuneration
Thanuja’s earnings include her weekly pay across 105 days of the show, along with the prestige of finishing second. While the exact figure has not been officially disclosed, industry insiders suggest that runner-up contestants often earn lakhs in cumulative remuneration, making the journey financially rewarding even without the trophy.Thanuja, as the runner-up, did not receive the winner’s cash prize but was rewarded with substantial remuneration , till will be around 10-15 Lakhs for her participation throughout the season.
Social media erupted with hashtags like #Thanuja and #BiggBossTelugu9, celebrating her achievement. Fans hailed her resilience, authenticity, and strong personality, emphasizing that being runner-up was no less than a victory. The recognition and popularity she gained ensure that Thanuja’s journey beyond Bigg Boss will be filled with opportunities in cinema, television, and digital platforms.
Though she missed the crown, Thanuja’s runner-up finish in Bigg Boss Telugu 9 brought her glory, financial rewards, and a loyal fan base. Her journey stands as proof that success in reality shows is not only about winning the trophy but also about winning hearts and building a lasting legacy.
