New Delhi: Political commentator Shehzad Poonawalla has emerged as the winner of Rise & Fall Season 2, after having beaten actor Priyanka Chahar Choudhary in the endgame of the reality show after months of intense rivalries, arguments and evolving alliances. Shehzad added to his win by saying he would donate all of his prize money (Rs 35 Lakh) to the Chief Ministers fund for flood affected states.
In the second season hosted by former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag people from various walks of life competed with each other in a battle of power with two teams the Rulers (who would live in the Penthouse) and the Workers (who would stay in the Basement).
During his run to the trophy Shehzad faced many arguments, formed some surprising friendships and made key choices with his game. Priyanka placed second and Gautam Gulati took home third place. Swara Bhasker took the fourth spot and Karan Patel fifth.
Arjun Bijlani was crowned winner in the first season.
Shehzad Poonawalla announces donation of Rs 35 Lakh
Shehzad announced he would be donating all of his prize money (Rs 35 Lakh) to the Chiefs Ministers fund after winning the trophy.
“I can’t explain how amazing it feels to win Rise and Fall Season 2. This has been a very tough 6 weeks and I’ve had to be patient and adaptable throughout.”
“I can’t explain how amazing it feels to win Rise and Fall Season 2. This has been a very tough 6 weeks and I’ve had to be patient and adaptable throughout. From the high of the Tower to the uncertainty of the Basement I’ve had to be adaptable at every turn.”
Despite moments of self doubt Shehzad said he believed he could win.
The actor also thanked the creators of the show MX Player by Prime Video and Banijay Asia for allowing him to be part of the show.
Shehzad and Siwet Tomar clash goes viral
One of the biggest moments of the season was when Shehzad and Siwet Tomar got into a physical altercation.
An argument between the two turned into a fight where Siwet grabbed Shehzad by the neck and ripped his kurta. Siwet was then evicted from the show for breaking the rules against physical fights.
Shehzad later revealed that he asked the makers not to evict Siwet but it was still one of the main talking points of the season.
Shehzad and Swara Bhasker have an evolving relationship
Throughout the game Shehzad and actor Swara Bhasker had an evolving relationship.
They started off with differing ideologies but formed a friendship. However, they often had disagreements with each other over game decisions.
One big moment was when Shehzad decided to save Gautam Gulati over Swara, causing her to accuse him of trolling her for years. Shehzad defended himself.
The argument escalated and Gautam had to step in. They both apologised and hugged.
Shehzad and Priyanka Chahar Choudhary have an evolving relationship
Shehzad and Priyanka Chahar Choudhary (first runner up) often had some harsh comments between the two.
At one point host Virender Sehwag asked Shehzad why he was calling Priyanka a vamp, and he defended his comments.
Shehzad also had a complicated relationship with Gautam Gulati. There were moments they understood each other but often had disagreements over key game decisions.
However, his friendship with Tej Pratap Yadav showed a different side.
Shehzad wins Ticket to Finale challenge
A key moment in Shehzads journey was when he won the Ticket to Finale challenge with Rishabh Jaiswal.
The pair completed the circuit board challenge in 23 minutes and 46 seconds beating Karan Patel and Jashwanth Bopanna.
This made Shehzad the first finalist and meant he won back the title of Ultimate Ruler for the second time.
He went on to win the rest of the challenges and win the trophy.
After weeks of evolving alliances, arguments and strategic gameplay Shehzad was crowned the winner of the second season. The finale can be streamed on Prime Video.