Arbaz Patel, a reality TV star, has recently clarified that his friendship with Dhanashree Verma on the show "Rise and Fall" was purely strategic and not based on genuine connection. The show, hosted by Ashneer Grover, concluded on October 17, 2025, with Arjun Bijlani taking home the winner's trophy and a cash prize of Rs. 28.10 lakh. Patel finished as the second runner-up.

Patel's bond with Verma was a significant highlight of the show, sparking speculation about the nature of their relationship. However, in a recent interview, Patel stated that it was "just an alliance". He explained that his primary focus on any show is to win, and friendships can be pursued in the real world. "Whenever I am on a show, I play the game. It's really difficult to survive otherwise. You are here to win. Friendships and relationships can be achieved in the real world. Everyone is just using one another in the game," Patel said.

He further elaborated on the importance of forming alliances in the game, emphasizing that his connection with Verma was part of his gameplay. Patel addressed comments about disregarding his girlfriend Nikki Tamboli's advice, stating that making strategic choices was crucial for advancing in the game. "This was an alliance. Many people are saying that I did not listen to my girlfriend Nikki's advice. But you must also understand that it is very important to make an alliance in this game. This was a part of the game. I had to do it to move ahead in the game. She also played the game in her own way," he explained.

Patel also noted how Verma's behavior shifted depending on who held power in the game. "When I was the ruler, she was very friendly towards me. When someone else took that space, her equation also changed," he said. Despite the strategic nature of their bond, Patel insists there's no animosity between them.

During the show, a particular comment made by Patel to Verma about hugging men sideways drew attention, even prompting a reaction from his girlfriend. Patel clarified that this stemmed from his upbringing and his understanding of respectful behavior towards women. He stated that he was taught to maintain a distance and that his intention was to convey that hugging another man from the front might be misconstrued.

Despite not winning the competition, Patel expressed his happiness for Arjun Bijlani, who secured the victory. He acknowledged Bijlani's strategic gameplay and the unpredictable nature of "Rise and Fall". "If someone played the game well after me, it was Arjun, and I am happy to see him win," Patel said.

"Rise and Fall" divided contestants into "Workers" and "Rulers," with challenges determining who would rise to the penthouse and who would remain in the basement. The show was marked by intense clashes and shifting alliances as contestants fought to secure their position in the game.