Shilpa Shirodkar, the actress and former model known for her work in Hindi films, has described her recent journey on Bigg Boss 18 as a "life-changing experience". Despite not winning the reality show, she expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity and the personal growth she experienced during her time in the house.
Shirodkar, who was a popular face in Bollywood in the 1990s, made a comeback to television in 2013 after a 13-year hiatus. In 2024, she participated in Bigg Boss 18, where she was initially considered a strong contender. However, she was evicted just days before the grand finale.
In a recent conversation with Gauahar Khan, Shirodkar reflected on her 103 days in the Bigg Boss house. "I didn't bring the trophy home," she admitted, "but I think those 103 days that I was in the Bigg Boss house were, for me, life-changing — and I think the best experience ever. I mean, if I ever get a chance in life again, I would love to go back". Khan responded with surprise, noting that many former contestants express reluctance to return. Shirodkar laughed and recounted Karan's joke that Bigg Boss was her "trial period". She playfully suggested that he call her for the next season, now that she understands the game.
Shirodkar emphasized that Bigg Boss 18 provided her with more than just visibility. "That house has taught me so much, and for me, that journey will always be very close to my heart. Mainly because it gave me the opportunity to realise the person I am is the perfect person. I don't care what others think about me". She highlighted the show's profound impact on her self-acceptance, stating that it helped her embrace her true self, regardless of others' opinions.
Shirodkar had always been a fan of Bigg Boss, revealing that she would watch it religiously and express her desire to participate to her husband. "When I used to watch Bigg Boss, I would be the only person in the house watching it. I always told my husband that one day I would go inside that house. When that call came, it was just magic". For Shirodkar, the Bigg Boss experience was less about winning and more about self-discovery.
Despite her eviction before the finale, Shirodkar's journey was marked by strong bonds with fellow contestants like Vivian Dsena and Karan Veer Mehra. Her eviction was emotional, with Karan Veer Mehra and Vivian Dsena shedding tears as they bid her farewell. Dsena even expressed regret for his actions toward Shirodkar, and Mehra gifted her his task-winning medal. Bigg Boss also praised Shirodkar for her contribution to the show.
In an interview after her eviction, Shirodkar shared her perspective on the show's dynamics. She noted that contestants often vie for Salman Khan's attention to gain prominence during "Weekend Ka Vaar" episodes. She also discussed her changing relationship with Vivian Dsena and her close bond with Karanvir Mehra.
Shirodkar's sister, Namrata Shirodkar, and brother-in-law, Mahesh Babu, also showed their support for her during her Bigg Boss journey. Although Namrata couldn't visit her in the house, she watched the show every day. Shirodkar revealed that Namrata was proud of her participation.
Following her stint on Bigg Boss 18, Shirodkar also made headlines for her physical transformation, revealing that she had lost a significant amount of weight. She shared her journey on Instagram, expressing that her Bigg Boss experience had been about growth, learning, and transformation.
In May 2025, Shirodkar announced that she had tested positive for COVID-19 and urged her followers to stay safe and wear masks.
