And, the Bigg Boss contestants are...

It is not surprising, the kind of curiosity that Bigg Boss generates this time of the year. With an exceptionally huge budget allotted for the upcoming season, a host of big names have signed up for the show. We caught up with a few contestants minutes before they were about to enter the house...

Karan Mehra, better known as Naitik of Ye Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: I have always been sceptical about the show but I had a change of heart when they approached me this time. People have always seen me as Naitik; now my fans will get a chance to see Karan. I think this is a great opportunity. Plus, I will also get a chance to meet Salman. I’m going to be myself — that’s the only strategy I will employ. I am also a patient person, I think this quality will help me sail through the show.

Gaurav Chopra, actor: I have been offered the show a couple of times before but I always turned it down since it never worked out. This time, I took it as a sign from God. I don’t know what strategies previous contestants have used, but I will only do what is right. The show has some entertainment value so I will not spoil that. I will be good to good people and bad to bad people.

Bani J, VJ:  I happen to know people who have been contestants on this show — Gauhar was one of them. She is a very close friend and has been asking me to take up this show. I think I am cut for reality television because I am good at being myself. I am going to be honest on the show, and if people will resonate with who I am, they will vote for me.

Rohan Mehra, better known as Naksh from Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: I have taken a break from my show Ye Rishta... to participate in Bigg Boss. I have an understanding with the team. It is however, upto the team to take me back on the show after my stint here. I became very popular as Naksh but it was getting monotonous. I took this show because Bigg Boss is a bigger platform. I don’t want to get into the Bigg Boss house with a strategy. I won’t do anything for the camera just to add spice. I won’t create unnecessary drama and lose my dignity. If viewers find me entertaining on the show, I will continue entertaining them. I think the youth connects a lot with me.

Lopamudra Raut, model: I am excited and a little worried at the same time since I have no clue what it is going to be like inside the house. I am used to looking good all the time, so I cannot imagine myself in pyjamas. I love making friends but I am not sure how others will reciprocate considering how desperate people are to win. I have come here to experience something new so I will go with the flow.