Chum Darang, hailing from Arunachal Pradesh, is all set to appear on the widely discussed and controversial show 'Bigg Boss 18'. She first captured public interest in 2018 with a tweet directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This season, she will be competing alongside 17 other contestants. In an exclusive interview with Mayapuri, Chum opened up about her preparations for Bigg Boss, the difficulties of disconnecting from her phone, her approach to forming new relationships, and how she plans to handle both positive and negative feedback.
What motivated you to participate in this show?
Chum- When I received the offer for this show, I thought about how everyone watches Bigg Boss from their homes. I realized that Bigg Boss could be a platform for me to showcase where I come from—Northeast India, Arunachal Pradesh. My main motivation was to make people aware of my roots.
You've done several films, but this is your debut on television and your first reality show. What are your thoughts on that?
Chum- I am super excited! I know this show is one of the most-watched and is both controversial and famous. I’m planning to do something different, and I believe it will be a great experience for me.
Everyone has different opinions about your game. You’ll receive both positive and negative comments. How mentally prepared are you for that?
Chum- When I signed up for this show, I knew it would come with a package of both positive and negative feedback. I'm ready for it, as everyone has different perspectives. I might unintentionally hurt someone, but I could also impress someone else. Regardless of whether I do well or poorly, people will always have something to say. I’ve prepared myself for that.
Salman Khan hosts the show. How have you prepared for your first meeting with him?
Chum- I’m really looking forward to meeting him. If I make a mistake, he’ll definitely call me out during the weekend episodes. It’s exciting to transition from watching him on screen to interacting with him weekly.
Salman and Bigg Boss often say that this is a show about relationships. How do you plan to build new connections while maintaining your personality?
Chum- I enjoy making friends, and this is an opportunity for me to improve my personality and forge new relationships. I can form bonds with some as siblings and others as friends. However, I’m not entering Bigg Boss specifically to make relationships; if it happens naturally, that would be wonderful and feel like a victory.
Social media plays an important role in our lives, but you won’t have your phone in the Bigg Boss house. Are you ready for that challenge?
Chum- I grew up in the '90s when there were no phones, so I’ll try to adapt to that mindset. But honestly, since phones have become common, I find it hard to live without one. It will definitely be a challenge for me, but I accept it. Who knows, it might even help reduce my dependency on my phone and be beneficial for my mental health.
Bigg Boss is a huge platform, and your personality will be scrutinized. Sometimes, you might feel unable to act or speak freely because everyone is watching. What are your thoughts on this?
Chum- I plan to be myself and show my true self. I hope people will appreciate me for who I am.
You’ve portrayed various characters well. What message do you want to convey to your fans?
Chum- To my fans, I would like to say that I need your support and your votes. Thank you so much for the love you’ve given me. I aim to do my best in the Bigg Boss house.
Chum Darang has made her mark in films like 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' and 'Badhaai Do'. In 'Badhaai Do', she took on the role of Bhumi Pednekar's girlfriend, which brought her significant recognition. Additionally, she has been featured in the web series 'Paatal Lok'.
By Priyanka Yadav