Before Bigg Boss 20, fans spent over Rs 11 cr to make Qazi Touqeer win Fame Gurukul

When Bigg Boss 20 premiered on September 6, many viewers found contestant Qazi Touqeer irritating or wondered why he was on the show. However, 21 years prior, Qazi had already become the most-voted contestant across any reality show in India. In October 2005, he won Sony TV’s Fame Gurukul, receiving a Rs 50 lakh prize, a Sony music contract, and a Maruti Alto.

At that time, each SMS vote cost between three and six rupees, and Qazi was voted for roughly 2.5 crore times, despite having no formal musical training and often being sent to the danger zone. His appeal lay in his screen presence, theatricality, and genuine emotional connection with the audience. Qazi's popularity was not based solely on his singing ability, but on his relatability and the underdog story that unfolded each week.

He became an underdog, constantly being doubted by judges but consistently receiving the audience’s support through SMS votes. Qazi's popularity transcended beyond music, creating an emotional relationship with the viewers. His success can be attributed to the unique media ecosystem of 2005, where television and SMS voting held immense power.

Although Qazi's star did not continue to shine post his victory, he maintained a friendship with fellow contestant Arijit Singh, who is now one of the most sought-after voices in Hindi film music. Qazi's impact on the audience was so strong that even when he entered Bigg Boss 20 in 2021, viewers were reminded of his past popularity.