The drama inside The 50 continues to intensify with every eviction, and in an exclusive chat with Midday, Jahnavi Killekar opened up about her turbulent journey, broken bonds, and explosive confrontations on the show. Janhavi Killekar on her experience in The 50 Calling it an “amazing” experience, Jahnavi said the reality series marked a major milestone in her career. “This was my first Hindi reality show. Before this, I had never worked in Hindi. I had done a lot of Marathi reality shows. But this was my first time in Hindi and my first experience. So, I really liked it,” she shared. However, she admitted feeling like an outsider at times. “Because everyone is from Hindi and I am from Marathi. I am not popular in pan-India. I am popular in Maharashtra. Everyone knows me in Maharashtra. I played all the tasks. I did friendship. I had fun. I enjoyed a lot. I gave 100 percent from my side.” Addressing her first major fight with Arya, Jahnavi clarified, “Actually, at that time I was neither on Aarya's side nor on Nikki's side.” She explained that Aarya repeatedly boasted about hitting someone in a previous show. “I wanted to tell him that this is not something to be proud of. That you hit someone and left the show. You have broken a very big rule of the show. It means that you don't have self-control. So, don't say proudly that you hit someone and left.” Reacts to Shiv Thakare, Karan Patel and others She also expressed disappointment over her bond with Shiv Thakare. “I don't have a fight with Shiv, but he is like a brother to me, we had that Marathi connection. And I did a lot for him, however he only lied. I had even told him that I will go against my team and prioritise you but he didn't do that for me… I felt hurt.” Jahnavi did not mince words about the abusive clash between Siddharth Bhardwaj and Karan Patel. “On the first day when Siddharth and Karanji had a fight, I was like, what are they talking about? It's so bad… We should learn from the elders. They are all my seniors… I feel that there is no one whom I can learn something from.” She also criticised Prince Narula’s gameplay. “He controls people very well… He came out and said, ‘Jahnvi ko nikalo.’ I said, he is such a liar… I think that is something that you will have to learn. But I don't want to learn this.” For Jahnavi, the show was as much about emotional lessons as competition, and not all of them were pleasant.
20 February,2026 08:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSony SAB is set to present its upcoming show Yaadein, the Indian adaptation of the globally acclaimed Italian series DOC - Nelle Tue Mani, which has been successfully adapted across multiple countries. Built around the theme of second chances in life, love, and identity, the show follows the extraordinary journey of a brilliant Dr. Dev (Iqbal Khan), who reconstructs his world after losing eight years of his memory in an accident. Iqbal Khan on second chances being deeply personal For Iqbal Khan, the idea of second chances is deeply personal. Speaking about the theme, he shared the story of a close friend whose life changed completely after she was given a second chance. What moved him was not the turning point itself, but what came after. He shared that his friend, instead of trying to go back to her old life, chose to move ahead differently. Her outlook changed. She began to slow down and live more consciously. From the way she ate to how she spent her time and who she surrounded herself with, her choices became more thoughtful. She slowly let go of old habits and negativity that no longer added value to her life and started living with greater presence and awareness. Sharing his thoughts Iqbal Khan shared, “The idea of second chances is deeply personal. We often think a second chance means going back and fixing the past. But a second chance gives you an opportunity in life to live with more understanding of what truly matters. It gives you an opportunity to become better and more responsible and that’s what I learnt not just from my friend’s experience but also from what my character Dr. Dev goes through in Yaadein. After losing eight years of his memory, he has to rebuild his life and become a better person and a more compassionate doctor.” Iqbal Khan on his character Dev Iqbal also got candid about his character, “When you’re playing a fictional character, you have creative liberty. But when the story is inspired by a real person’s life, there is a certain responsibility that comes with it. You’re not just performing; you’re representing someone’s lived truth. What moved me most was Dr. Pierdante Piccioni journey of rediscovering himself after his memory loss. Imagine waking up and realising that the world has moved ahead by twelve years relationships have evolved, your child has grown up, your work has changed and you’re meeting your own life like a stranger. As an actor, I had to constantly remind myself that for him, this wasn’t drama, it was reality.”
20 February,2026 07:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentKaran Patel recently faced social media backlash over his performance on The 50, with many viewers calling his stint “not up to the mark” and accusing him of lacking effort in tasks. However, his team has now clarified that the actor was dealing with a serious injury during the shoot. According to them, Karan suffered a proper rib fracture while performing one of the physically demanding challenges on the show. The revelation has shifted the narrative, highlighting that his performance may have been affected by pain rather than lack of commitment. Karan Patel's team issues a statement In response to criticism, Karan Patel's team has now released a formal statement outlining the circumstances. The statement claims that what spectators perceived as indolence was actually the result of a medical issue that Karan was facing in silence throughout the show, but he was doing his best to put on a fair show so as not to disappoint his followers. The statement read, "From day one, Karan entered the show with complete commitment and professionalism. During the very first major task, co-contestant Sidharth Bhardwaj charged into him with significant force during a competitive round. The impact resulted in what was initially suspected to be a hairline rib fracture." Further the statement also clarified that Karan was under physical trauma, "Despite the severe pain and physical trauma, Karan continued performing the task to the best of his ability, refusing to step back midway. However, due to increasing discomfort, he was later taken for medical consultation and X-rays. Medical reports confirmed that the injury was not merely a minor hairline fracture but a proper rib fracture. Following medical evaluation, he was temporarily advised rest and taken out of the competition for consultation. However, feeling responsible toward his fans and deeply disappointed about missing out on performing for them, Karan chose to re-enter the show, even as a wildcard. Despite ongoing pain and medical risk." On his rib injury The team mentioned how the upcoming episodes of the show shall reveal Karan's full potential despite the setback, "The upcoming episodes will clearly show his strong performance and full participation in tasks. It is important to clarify that the circulating images and clips of Karan resting or lying down are being taken completely out of context. Those moments were not indicative of laziness or avoidance of tasks. They were moments of recovery. Karan was on prescribed oral painkillers and had to undergo intramuscular injections to manage the pain caused by a fractured rib. After completing physically demanding and high-intensity tasks, he would rest as medically advised to prepare himself for the next challenge." "Choosing dignity over drama, Karan did not indulge in shouting matches, unnecessary aggression, or name-calling to seek screen time. His focus remained on performance and professionalism, not theatrics. Unfortunately, continuous physical strain from the intense tasks aggravated the injury further. Upon strict medical advice, he was left with no choice but to take a voluntary exit from the show. This was not a strategic decision, it was a health necessity." The statement concluded by asking viewers not believe speculations, "We request media houses and digital platforms to refrain from spreading misleading narratives suggesting that he was “sleeping through tasks” or “underperforming.” The truth is that he pushed through a serious rib fracture to honour his commitment to the show and his audience. Karan Patel’s journey in The 50 ended not due to lack of effort, but due to medical compulsion. We appreciate the continued love and support from fans and urge everyone to allow facts, not speculation to shape the narrative."
20 February,2026 07:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVikas Khanna has been one of the most enduring faces of MasterChef India, and in a candid conversation with Midday, the celebrated chef opened up about the show’s evolving concept and what keeps drawing him back year after year. Vikas Khanna talks about his joy on being a part of MasterChef India for 16 years Expressing his joy over the platform, he said, “I love it. I feel it's a beautiful moment for Indian food to be celebrated like this.” Reflecting on his long association with the show, he added, “I feel that being a part of a show for 16 years consistently and trying to tell the story of India and be the pollinator between East and West. I think it's a very big advantage, opportunity and also responsibility.” Despite his popularity on television, Khanna admitted that fame was never his goal. “I never aspire to come on TV. I am not that guy, but it's okay. Life got me this opportunity, so I am just honoring it. But I am not that guy. I just love being in my kitchen spaces and my restaurant and to be behind the camera. I prefer that. That's why you see so much less of me and whatever has been put is very much not on your face.” For him, influence comes with purpose. “I feel that you need to have something of value. I just feel to be a person of such high influence, you don't have to be an influencer, you have to be somebody who fights on the battlefield every day and that's what I love doing myself.” He also shared how the show serves as creative fuel. “It's good that I get a break. I spend time with Ranveer Brar. And for me, new aspirations happen from during my masterchef. Could be books, movies, documentaries, different products. For me, it's a training ground. Mom comes to stay with me. I don't have a bigger motivation than that. And then it also helps me to connect with millions of people back home.” Vikas Khanna on the new concept of MasterChef India Khanna believes the platform carries global responsibility. “But also this gives me a lot of thought of how and what communication I want to take of India to the world and having such a majestic platform which God has blessed me with. It's only possible that, you know, very few roads are two ways and God gave me this two way road.” Speaking about conversations with Priyanka Chopra, he revealed, “Every time we discuss this with Priyanka also, she says that, you know, we are so fortunate, both of us, that we are in both the countries equally present and equally working, hustling and telling the story of India. I think this is a very great moment for Indian culture and cuisine and arts.” Talking about the latest jodi concept, he reflected on India’s unique emotional fabric. “I do feel that, you know, having spent most of my life in the West, I feel that the jodis concert of MasterChef can only happen in India. There is no connection in the outside world that somebody would sacrifice their time and energy to support somebody's dream like this. Here, mother, father, father in law, all those, so much, so much happens in India. So much gets invested into others. So for me, seeing this, I really enjoy it and I love it. And spending these six weeks around in a country that I was born and raised in, which gave me everything I have, I feel that this jodi season has made me reflect to the relationships that we hold so dear in this country.”
20 February,2026 07:27 PM IST | Mumbai | Shruti SampatIf you thought the kitchen chaos had peaked, think again. This weekend on COLORS’ Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment, all eyes are on Aly Goni as his birthday becomes the reason and the excuse for absolute hungama. And obviously, what’s a birthday without cake? But here’s the twist, this isn’t your regular cake-cutting scene. Each contestant has to bake a cake that screams Aly energy. The flavour? Should match his vibe. The topping? A hashtag that sums him up perfectly. It’s sweet, it’s chaotic, and knowing this kitchen, it’s definitely not going to be subtle. Aly Goni makes a grand entry Aly makes a full-on hero entry with a chef’s hat on, apron tied, and all his stars shining bright. And just when everyone thinks it’s going to be all about cooking, the show throws in a surprise with a magician on set. Prince Jadugar steps in and begins performing for the contestants, leaving them wide-eyed and astonished! What follows is a complete flavour showdown, frosting flying, layers wobbling, and every cake trying to capture “Peak Aly.” Some are loud and dramatic like his on-screen energy, others a little more warm and comforting. And as if the day wasn’t big enough already, the celebration comes right after the kitchen was graced by Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, making the moment feel even more special. Between the teasing, the laughter and a few sweet surprises, the episode serves up exactly what fans tune in for: fun, food and full-on entertainment. Aly Goni shares his emotions on birthday Sharing his emotions, Aly says, “I think this is genuinely one of the most special birthdays I’ve ever had. To have the entire Laughter Chefs team theme their cakes around my personality was incredibly touching; watching everyone interpret who I am through flavours, designs and even the hashtags on the cakes was such a treat. The thought, love and creativity they put into every detail really moved me, and I thank each one of them from the bottom of my heart. What made it even more unforgettable was that the day revolved around one of my biggest passions - cooking. And to be cooking on my birthday, in front of Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, is something I’ll never forget. He’s the legend who taught an entire generation how to cook and appreciate this craft, so sharing that moment with him felt surreal. This celebration is something I’ll truly cherish.” Aly Goni had a grand celebration on the show, calling it a happy memory that he shall always cherish.
20 February,2026 06:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFitness icon and entrepreneur Krishna Shroff has done it again. After a gripping run on the reality show The 50 that has seen her rack up victories, outsmart opponents, and lead from the front, Krishna is now being strongly rumoured to have made it to the Top 5 of the show. Krishna Shroff makes it to the Top 5 The 50 has entered its most crucial stage, with the top four finalists officially confirmed ahead of the grand finale. If rumours doing the rounds are to be believed, the grand finale is set to be a five-way battle between Krishna and Mr. Faisu, Rajat Dalal, Kaka, and Shiv Thakare, five of the most formidable competitors the show has seen. And if the intensity with which the show's tasks have been performed is any indication, the show's finale is guaranteed to showcase a tough neck-to-neck battle for the win. What makes this moment particularly memorable is the fact that she stands as the only female contestant to have made it to the Top 5. From leading her team to victory in the premiere episode to outplaying opponents in high-pressure tasks, to making bold and calculated nominations, Krishna has never played a small game. With the shoot reportedly progressing at a swift pace and the finale task having already put all five contestants through an intense and gruelling battle, the rumours of her Top 5 placement are growing louder. If her journey on The 50 so far is any indication, Krishna has proven on more than one occasion that she deserves that well-earned spot in the Top 5. Whatever the outcome, Krishna Shroff has already rewritten the rules of the reality TV game, and the finale is only going to cement that legacy further. Grand finale gets its finalists After weeks of intense challenges, shifting alliances, and dramatic confrontations inside the palace, four contestants have secured their spots in the final race for the coveted trophy and the prize money of Rs 50 lakh for their fans. From a large pool of celebrities drawn from television and digital platforms, the competition steadily narrowed as eliminations raised the stakes. Familiar names such as Prince Narula, Yuvika Chaudhary, and Urvashi Dholakia were part of the season, making the contest even more competitive. As the show progressed into its final phase, only a handful of strong contenders remained, each fighting to secure a place in the finale. The four finalists who ultimately clinched their positions are Mr. Faisu, Shiv Thakare, Rajat Dalal, and Immortal Kaka. Each of them has demonstrated resilience, strategy, and strong fan support throughout the season. Their journeys have been marked by tough tasks that tested not only physical strength but also mental sharpness and social gameplay.
20 February,2026 04:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe latest precap of Star Plus’ much loved show Udne Ki Aasha is out. And the precap unveils the much-anticipated entry of Himanshi Parashar as Simran. Her arrival marks a significant turn in the storyline. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Amritsar, the story takes an emotional turn as Sachin, played by Kanwar Dhillon, is seen working as a driver in the city. Meanwhile, Sailee, portrayed by Neha Harsora, also arrives in Amritsar, unaware of the changes that are about to unfold. Upcoming twist in Udne Ki Aasha But beneath the surface lies a deeper turmoil. Sachin has left for work carrying grief in his heart, convinced that Sailee has betrayed him and shattered his trust. Choosing distance over confrontation, he heads to Amritsar hoping to bury his pain in work. Unbeknownst to him, Sailee follows him to the city, determined to mend his broken heart and clear the misunderstandings that have torn them apart. It is on this emotionally charged journey that Sachin crosses paths with Simran, played by Himanshi Parashar. The precap highlights the first interaction between Himanshi’s character Simran, and Sachin, a moment charged with mystery and unspoken tension. Simran’s dramatic entry in front of Sachin’s car becomes more than just a chance encounter. Is she destiny’s twist at a vulnerable moment in his life? As Sailee steps into the same city searching for him, viewers are left wondering, who exactly is Simran? What connection will she forge with Sachin in his fragile state? And most importantly, will her presence become a hurdle in Sachin and Sailee’s relationship? Himanshi Parashar talks about her character Talking about her character, Simran, Himanshi Parashar shared, "When I was offered this special appearance in Udne Ki Aasha, I usually don’t prefer cameos, but since the character is Punjabi and so full of colour and life, I didn’t want to miss it. Star Plus feels like home to me, so I simply couldn’t say no. I’m playing Simran, also called Simmi. Her entry in front of Sachin’s car was my first shot, and it was quite memorable because we even had a little prank on set! It turned out to be a great experience." She further added, "Simran will bring unexpected twists to the story. What I love about Udne Ki Aasha is that it is light-hearted and realistic at the same time. We are enjoying shooting the upcoming track, and I hope the audience enjoys watching it as much as we are enjoying performing it. Thank you for all the love." Will Sachin’s loyalty be tested? Can Sailee reach him before misunderstandings deepen? Or will Simran’s colourful entry redefine equations forever? As the narrative unfolds in Amritsar, relationships will be questioned and destinies may change course. One thing is certain, this new chapter is set to bring gripping drama, fresh visuals, and edge-of-the-seat moments for viewers of Udne Ki Aasha.
20 February,2026 03:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentReality show The 50 has been grabbing headlines ever since it premiered, thanks to its intense format and strong personalities locked inside the house. Known for pushing contestants to their limits through challenging tasks and unpredictable twists, the show has consistently delivered drama, alliances, betrayals and emotional confrontations. With popular faces like Shiv Thakre, Prince Narula, Nikki Tamboli and Arbaz Patel in the mix, tensions were always expected to rise. Reason behind Arbaz Patel's shocking eviction Recently, the house witnessed a heated confrontation that quickly became the talk of the town. What began as a verbal disagreement soon escalated into a chaotic situation involving Arbaz, Shiv and Prince. The intensity of the argument shocked viewers, and soon after the incident, Arbaz Patel was evicted from the show. While at first glance it appeared to be just another explosive fight inside the house, sources indicate that the situation was more layered than it seemed. A source close to the production of the show revealed the actual situation that unfolded inside the house and why Arbaz Patel was evicted. “A source close to the production shared, ‘Nikki Tamboli told Arbaz Patel that Prince Narula and Shiv Thakre were body-shaming her and also passing derogatory comments about influencers, saying they are ruining the industry. After that, things got heated and Shiv and Prince charged towards her. At that point, Arbaz stepped in and stood in between to protect Nikki. In the heat of the moment, things escalated and the fight got bigger. Honestly, anyone in Arbaz’s place would have done the same. If two men are aggressively charging at a woman, it’s obvious you will step in to protect her.’” All about Arbaz Patel's stint in The 50 As per what unfolded, Arbaz’s reaction appeared to stem from an instinct to intervene rather than to attack. In a tense and emotionally charged environment like the house, stepping in to prevent a situation from escalating further can be a natural response. When aggression is directed toward someone, especially in close quarters, it is human instinct to shield and support rather than stand back. However, the show follows a strict no-violence rule, and any physical involvement irrespective of intention leads to immediate eviction. This ultimately resulted in Arbaz being evicted from The 50. The incident has since sparked conversations about intent versus action in high-pressure reality show situations, adding yet another dramatic chapter to the season.
20 February,2026 03:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Supreme Court of India has strongly criticised YouTuber Elvish Yadav while hearing proceedings related to the ongoing snake venom case, observing that influential public figures must act responsibly when it comes to wildlife protection. Elvish Yadav's snake venom case has a hearing During the hearing, the bench made sharp remarks about the alleged handling of protected species. The judges stated, “If popular persons are allowed to use voiceless victims like snakes, it could send a very bad message to society.” Emphasising the seriousness of the allegations, the court further questioned, “You take the snake and play around. Did you deal with the snake or not? Can you go to the zoo and play with animals there? Will it not be an offence? You can’t say that you’ll do whatever you want.” The case pertains to allegations that snakes and snake venom were used at private events, including alleged rave parties in Noida. Police had earlier claimed that several snakes, including cobras, were rescued and that suspected venom was recovered during the investigation. Authorities invoked provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, stating that protected species cannot be possessed or used without legal authorisation. Elvish Yadav receives flak Appearing for Yadav, senior advocate Mukta Gupta argued that her client had merely attended an event as a guest for a music video shoot and had no involvement in any illegal activity. She told the court that there was “no rave party” and “no consumption of any psychotropic substance.” She also submitted that medical examination reports suggested the snakes involved were not venomous, challenging the prosecution’s claims. However, the state’s counsel maintained that the investigation had uncovered material suggesting illegal possession of snakes and possible extraction of venom. The bench sought clarity on how snake venom could allegedly be extracted and used in such contexts, indicating that the matter required careful scrutiny. The Supreme Court has adjourned the case for further detailed hearing. The judges underscored that laws protecting wildlife exist to safeguard animals that cannot defend themselves and must be strictly enforced. The controversy first surfaced in November 2023 when a case was registered against Yadav and others, triggering widespread public debate and legal proceedings that continue to unfold.
20 February,2026 02:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn an emotional episode of The 50, actor Karan Patel bid farewell after a shocking multi-contestant elimination that left the house stunned. The unexpected twist saw five contestants voted out in one go, dramatically shifting alliances and altering the course of the game. Karan Patel gets evicted As the host, known as The Lion, began announcing the names, tension gripped the room. Karan’s name was called first, and the actor appeared visibly shaken. Fellow contestants gathered around him in support as the weight of the moment sank in. Later, reflecting on his exit, Karan broke down while sharing what truly overwhelmed him. “It was just the thought of going home and seeing my daughter,” he said, struggling to contain his emotions. The heartfelt confession struck a chord, revealing that beyond strategy and competition, family remained his biggest strength. Alongside Karan, contestants including Chahat Pandey, Aarya, Bhavya, and Maxtern were also eliminated after receiving the lowest votes from their co-contestants. The house atmosphere quickly turned heavy, with friendships tested and unspoken tensions surfacing. Earlier in the episode, Yuvika Chaudhary used a special Golden Card advantage she had earned in a previous task to save Divya Agarwal, a strategic move that significantly influenced the voting outcome. The decision reshuffled expectations and left several contestants vulnerable. The emotional fallout was immediate. Shrutika Arjun was seen in tears over Chahat’s departure, highlighting the genuine bonds formed inside the house. Conversations soon turned into heated discussions, with contestants reassessing loyalties and questioning where the numbers went wrong. Karan's stint with The 50 While the episode featured intense physical challenges and tactical gameplay, it was Karan’s raw vulnerability that became the defining moment. His simple words about reuniting with his daughter reminded viewers that beyond the fierce competition, the show is also about personal journeys, sacrifices, and the emotional cost of chasing victory. Earlier, Karan Patel had sparked controversy for his comment on Influencers vs TV actors. He was heard saying, "When we started out, we didn’t have so many options to become famous. We slogged our way to get where we are. For them, it’s easy. We didn’t have phones where you could just make a video, upload it and become famous."
20 February,2026 01:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a dramatic and emotional episode of The 50, actress Nikki Tamboli found herself at the centre of attention after making a major personal sacrifice during a high-pressure task. The challenge, part of the intense Dare or No Dare segment, tested contestants’ loyalty, strategy and willingness to give up prized possessions for the team’s benefit. Nikki Tamboli sacrifices her expensive belongings Nikki was called into the Lion’s Den while she was in the middle of doing her makeup, catching her off guard. She was tasked with collecting personal belongings from fellow contestants within a strict time limit to add money to the group’s prize pot. In the first round, she successfully gathered 1 kg of items, earning Rs 20,000. She followed it up with 2 kg in the next round, adding another Rs 30,000 to the total. However, as housemates became more protective and began hiding their belongings, the final round proved far more challenging. Nikki needed to collect 3 kg of items to secure an additional Rs 50,000. With limited options and time running out, she made a bold decision as she chose to sacrifice her own personal makeup and skincare products to complete the task. Nikki Tamboli gets emotional Her effort paid off, bringing her total contribution to Rs 1 lakh and significantly boosting the overall prize money. Despite her success, the emotional weight of the moment was evident. Nikki broke down, expressing disappointment over what she felt was a lack of support from some fellow contestants. The situation became even more intense when her boyfriend, Arbaz Patel, revealed just how expensive her products were. According to him, her moisturiser costs Rs 75,000, while her serum is priced at Rs 50,000. However, she was extremely upset with her boyfriend Arbaz in the house after the whole task. She even went on to say that she hurt her whole family by choosing him and he has been hurting her for this. The revelation highlighted the scale of her sacrifice, turning the episode into one of the most talked-about moments of the season. Nikki’s determination to prioritise the team over her personal belongings showcased both her competitive spirit and emotional vulnerability, leaving viewers divided yet deeply engaged.
19 February,2026 06:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
