Splitsvilla X5, which premiered on March 30, 2024, and was hosted by Tanuj Virwani and Sunny Leone, became a hit with viewers due to its intense drama, unexpected twists, and entertaining moments. The season concluded with its finale on August 11, 2024, but the controversies surrounding the show have continued to make headlines. One of the show's most talked-about moments involved contestant Kashish Kapoor, who found herself at the center of a storm after making a surprising decision during the finale.
Kashish shocked both her fellow contestants and viewers when she chose to walk away with Rs. 10 lakh instead of competing in the final round for the chance to win the grand prize of Rs. 15 lakh. This decision sparked widespread backlash on social media, with many fans expressing their disappointment and anger. Kashish quickly became the target of online criticism, receiving numerous hate comments and even death threats as a result of her choice. The situation became so intense that Kashish felt compelled to take legal action to protect herself.
On August 21, 2024, Kashish Kapoor took to her Instagram to share that she had officially filed a complaint against the cyberbullying she had been enduring. She posted a photo of the formal complaint she submitted to the Amboli Police Station in Mumbai, revealing that she had sought the help of a lawyer to address the harassment. In her post, she expressed her gratitude to those who had supported her during this difficult time, stating, "Enough is enough. I thank each and every one of you, jinhone meri help ki hain."
Kashish Kapoor's Complaint Copy
The controversy surrounding Kashish’s decision highlights the pressure and scrutiny that reality show contestants often face, especially when they make choices that may not align with the expectations of the audience. The incident took place during a dramatic twist in the finale, where surprise guests Uorfi Javed and Munawar Faruqui presented the finalists with a difficult choice: take Rs. 10 lakh and quit the game or compete for the grand prize of Rs. 15 lakh. Kashish’s decision to prioritize the immediate cash reward over the uncertain outcome of the finale became a polarizing moment in the show, leading to the intense backlash that followed.
While reality TV is known for its unpredictable nature, the fallout from this decision serves as a reminder of the real-world consequences that contestants can face as a result of their on-screen actions. Kashish’s experience underscores the darker side of fame, where public opinion can turn hostile, leading to severe personal attacks and even threats to one's safety.
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