14 February,2026 07:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Abu Malik, Sidharth Shukla and Shehnaaz Gill
Former Bigg Boss 13 contestant Abu Malik has shared a lesser-known anecdote about the early days of the reality show, revealing that Sidharth Shukla was initially hesitant to be linked with Shehnaaz Gill inside the house. Speaking on the YouTube show Maa Kasam, Abu fondly remembered his late friend while offering insight into how equations shifted over time.
Recalling their conversations during Bigg Boss 13, Abu said, "Sidharth was a very good friend of mine, the one who passed awayâ¦" He explained that in the first few weeks, Sidharth was unsure about forming a close association with Shehnaaz and fellow contestant Asim Riaz. Sharing one of Sidharth's remarks, Abu quoted him as saying, "If this guy doesn't know who Hitler is, she doesn't know where Germany is. Now you want me to be attached to them?"
According to Abu, the comment reflected Sidharth's initial perception that their personalities and worldviews were too different. He suggested that Sidharth valued certain conversations and intellectual compatibility, which he felt might be lacking at the time. However, Abu clarified that this hesitation was short-lived.
As the season progressed, Sidharth and Shehnaaz's bond grew stronger. What started as light-hearted banter gradually turned into one of the most talked-about dynamics on the show. Abu noted that Shehnaaz had openly expressed her fondness for Sidharth early on, and her playful, affectionate nature eventually softened his stance. Their camaraderie became a central highlight of the season, often bringing both drama and emotional moments to the forefront.
Despite never officially labelling their relationship, fans passionately supported the duo, affectionately calling them "SidNaaz." Sidharth ultimately emerged as the winner of Bigg Boss 13 in 2020, while Shehnaaz's popularity soared alongside his.
Abu's recollection sheds light on how relationships inside the intense, competitive atmosphere of reality television can evolve unexpectedly, turning initial reluctance into a deep connection that continues to be remembered fondly by fans even years later.