If you thought things like reality TV ridiculousness and outright sensationalism were only a thing of the West, then think again.
Last week, Bigg Boss (that’s the Indian equivalent of Big Brother in the US and UK) made reality TV history — uh Bigg Boss history??? — with its first ever on-air wedding. (Who could ever forget garbage like The Bachelor/Bachelorette series and Who Wants to Marry a Millionaire where the prospect of an on-air wedding is not only imminent, it is the finale!!)
Yes, on 11 November (Day 38 in the Bigg Boss world), contestant Sara Khan, an actress and model, wed longtime beau, actor Ali Merchant. The ceremony took place in the Bigg Boss house and was attended by the housemates as well as Sara’s uncle and Ali’s parents, who were allowed to enter the house for the event. A priest was also allowed to enter to preside over the nuptials.
Meanwhile, guests on the outside gathered at a wedding hall to take part in the ceremony via a large-screen TV.
The ceremony was a lavish affair, with the Bigg Boss producers going all out for the couple. Food and flowers were brought in to set the appropriate mood, and Sara and Ali were provided wedding outfits by designer Vikram Phandis. The newlyweds were also allowed to spend their wedding night alone in a room, completely separated from their Bigg Boss housemates.
The couple has courted controversy in the days since saying “I do.” Reports have surfaced claiming Sara and Ali have already been married for three years (which Ali denies). And Ali became emotional when asked to leave the Bigg Boss house just days after marrying Sara.
How would you feel about having your special day televised live for all the world to see? And I’m not talking in a Bridezillas or Say Yes to the Dress way.
Oh… and I love how all these media outlets refer to the Bigg Boss housemates (cast members) as inmates! Just like prison. That’s right, everyone. Reality TV is Hell!