Arbaz Patel, the fiery and strategic reality star, has finally broken his silence after finishing as the third runner-up on the debut season of Rise and Fall—the intense reality competition hosted by Ashneer Grover. While Arjun Bijlani walked away with the trophy, Arbaz is walking away with something equally valuable: pride in a game well played, deep learnings, and zero regrets.
“I am the third runner-up. Arjun Bijlani won the show—huge congratulations to him. He is deserving,” said Arbaaz, gracefully acknowledging the winner. “I am happy with my journey. I think I carried the show on my shoulder, and I am grateful to Rise and Fall—it has taught me a lot.”
Having been a part of multiple reality shows, including MTV Splitsvilla and Bigg Boss Marathi, Arbaaz didn’t mince words when describing Rise and Fall as one of the toughest experiences of his career. “I’ve done a lot of shows, but I haven’t seen anything like this. And this being the first season, I’m sure it’ll get tougher in the next ones. This is a tough show—people might think it looks easy, but it isn’t.”
Reflecting on his gameplay, Arbaaz admitted that alliances were his biggest weapon—and his emotional vulnerability, his biggest risk.
“Had I not made friends with those three people and didn’t form that trio, and didn’t get those votes under me… This is a game, and one must make alliances. Workers were against me, rulers were against me, but I had the votes in the red-room, and those friends of mine saved me,” he revealed.
He also responded to remarks made by fellow contestant—and his rumored girlfriend—Nikki Tamboli, who criticized him for relying too heavily on emotions and alliances.
“Nikki told me I was relying too much on my friends, and I am emotional, but everyone was playing a game. I was playing it all too well. I know how to manipulate and maneuver through situations,” he said confidently.
Throughout his time on the show, Arbaz stirred buzz not just with his gameplay but also for his close bond with co-contestant Dhanashree Verma—a dynamic that raised eyebrows, especially since he's reportedly in a relationship with Nikki Tamboli. Nikki even posted cryptic messages during the season, fueling speculation about their off-screen status.
From his explosive argument with Aarush Bhola to winning the coveted Ticket to Finale, Arbaz’s journey was anything but boring. With his acting background, a sharp mind for strategy, and undeniable screen presence, he’s already a standout from Rise and Fall’s first season—and whether you loved him or hated him, you were definitely watching him.