Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 Prize Money Kiccha Sudeep ₹10 Lakh Gift & Tax Explained 2025–26
Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 once again became one of the most talked-about television shows in Karnataka during the 2025–26 season. Apart from entertainment and emotional moments, the show also raised many questions regarding prize money, taxes, host Kiccha Sudeep’s personal announcement, and how contestants are paid during their stay inside the Bigg Boss house.
This article clearly explains all these aspects with accurate information, legal context, and verified understanding.
Official Prize Money of Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12
The officially announced winner’s prize money for Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 is:
- ₹50,00,000 (₹50 lakh)
This amount is declared by the channel and production team and is the only official prize money associated with winning the season.
Tax Deduction on Bigg Boss Prize Money
According to Indian Income Tax laws, prize money from game shows and reality shows falls under Section 194B of the Income Tax Act.
Applicable Tax Structure:
- Income Tax: 30% (flat rate)
- Health & Education Cess: 4%
Approximate Calculation:
- Total prize: ₹50,00,000
- Total tax & cess: around ₹17,00,000
- Net amount received by the winner: approximately ₹33 lakh
This tax is usually deducted as TDS by the channel before releasing the prize amount to the winner.
Kiccha Sudeep’s ₹10 Lakh Announcement: Official or Personal?
During the finale episode, Kiccha Sudeep publicly stated that he would give ₹10 lakh from his personal side to contestant Gilli, appreciating his journey, effort, and emotional connection in the show.
Important Clarification:
- This ₹10 lakh is NOT part of the official Bigg Boss prize
- The channel and show are not responsible for this amount
- It is a personal gesture by Kiccha Sudeep, clearly mentioned as such on stage
There is no official Bigg Boss or Colors Kannada documentation listing this ₹10 lakh as show prize money.
READ THIS: Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 Winner 2025–26: Gilli Nata
About the Winner: Gilli’s Journey in Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12
Gilli emerged as the winner of Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 (2025–26) after a journey marked by emotional strength, consistency, and audience connection. From the initial weeks of the show, Gilli maintained a calm and grounded personality, avoiding unnecessary conflicts while actively participating in tasks and house responsibilities.
His ability to handle pressure situations, respect fellow contestants, and stay composed during challenging moments helped him gain strong public support.
Throughout the season, Gilli was often appreciated for his genuine behavior and emotional transparency, which resonated with viewers across Karnataka.
His journey was not defined by aggression or controversy, but by steady growth and resilience. This balanced approach ultimately played a key role in securing audience votes and leading him to lift the Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 trophy.
Is Tax Applicable on the ₹10 Lakh Personal Gift?
Yes. Even though it is a personal gift, tax rules still apply.
- The ₹10 lakh amount is treated as “income from other sources” for the recipient
- Tax liability depends on the recipient’s income slab
In most cases, considering the winner’s income level:
- Approx tax may go up to 30% + cess
- Net amount received may be around ₹6.8–7 lakh
Whether TDS is deducted at source or not, final tax responsibility lies with the recipient, not the giver.
Do Bigg Boss Contestants Get Paid for Staying in the House?
Yes. All contestants in Bigg Boss Kannada receive a weekly remuneration.
Key Points:
- Payment is based on popularity, prior agreements, and negotiation
- Amounts vary from contestant to contestant
- This payment is separate from prize money
- Even contestants who do not win receive this weekly payment
Exact figures are confidential and not officially disclosed.
Are Food, Dresses, and House Expenses Deducted from Contestants?
No. Contestants do not pay for anything inside the Bigg Boss house.
Expenses Covered by the Show:
- Accommodation inside the house
- Food and daily meals
- Common wardrobe and costumes
- House property, set design, electricity, and maintenance
These costs are fully borne by the production team, not deducted from contestants’ earnings.
Who Do These Rules Apply To?
- Prize money tax: Applies only to the winner
- Weekly payment: Applies to all contestants
- Personal gifts: Tax applies only to the recipient
- House expenses: Free for all contestants
Conclusion:
Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 (2025–26) clearly separates official prize money, personal gestures, and contestant remuneration. The ₹50 lakh prize is the only official winning amount and is subject to mandatory tax deductions.
Kiccha Sudeep’s ₹10 lakh announcement is a personal gift, independent of the channel, and taxable as per income tax laws. Contestants also earn weekly payments, while all house-related expenses are fully covered by the show.
About The Author
Rahul Bidnal