Last Updated:
Arbaz Patel breaks silence on his bond with Dhanashree Verma post Rise & Fall, saying their friendship was strategic and that survival, not emotions, ruled the game.
Arbaz Patel says his friendship with Dhanashree Verma on Rise & Fall was purely strategic.
Arbaz Patel, the second runner-up of the reality show Rise & Fall, is finally opening up about his experience in the house — and he’s not holding back. Known for his sharp strategies and competitive nature, Arbaz says the past six weeks were like a battlefield where survival mattered more than emotions.
“When I enter a reality show, I come to play the game. You can’t survive if you don’t treat it like one. Friendships and emotions are great, but they belong to the real world, not inside that house,” Arbaz told News18 exclusively.
On His Bond With Dhanashree Verma
Arbaz’s connection with co-contestant Dhanashree Verma was one of the most talked-about aspects of the season, with viewers speculating whether it was friendship or something deeper. Setting the record straight, Arbaz says, “It was an alliance, nothing more. Everyone was playing to win, and forming alliances was part of that. People said I ignored my girlfriend Nikki’s advice, but you have to make strategic choices. Dhanashree played her game, and so did I.”
Despite their differences, Arbaz maintains there’s no animosity. “When I was the ruler, she was friendly with me; when others took charge, her equations shifted. That’s natural in a game like this,” he adds.
Clarifying His Controversial Comment
One moment that sparked debate during the show was when Arbaz told Dhanashree about hugging men sideways, a remark that even his girlfriend questioned. Explaining his perspective, Arbaz says, “I didn’t grow up around many female friends. My parents taught me to maintain dignity and space. I told Dhanashree that a woman should avoid front hugs with men other than her partner — that’s how I was raised. She said she hugs everyone, and I completely respect that.”
Arbaz Reflects On His Journey
The reality star also expressed his happiness for Rise & Fall winner Arjun Bijlani. “If anyone played it smart after me, it was Arjun. I’m glad he won,” he said. Looking back, Arbaz admits the show taught him that strategy will always trump sentiment. “People often call these connections friendship,” he smiles, “but inside that house, it’s survival. Once the cameras are off, you realise who was real and who was just playing along.”
Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, …Read More
Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, … Read More
October 18, 2025, 04:07 IST
