Former BharatPe MD and former Shark Tank India judge Ashneer Grover has addressed the uproar following a viral clip from Bigg Boss 18, where Bollywood superstar Salman Khan confronted him over his past statements. Grover was questioned by Salman Khan about his statements in a public event that went viral in which he made certain claims about the BharatPe made with the Bollywood actor and the negotiations happened then. The Big Boss episode, aired during the show’s Weekend Ka Vaar, garnered significant attention and sparked widespread discussion online, with many claiming that the BharatPe co-founder was shown his place by the superstar actor.
During the episode, Salman directly questioned Ashneer about alleged remarks he made regarding their previous collaboration. “I’ve heard you talking about me,” Salman remarked. “You claimed you signed me for a certain amount, but the figures were incorrect. What’s with the double standards?” Salman’s pointed yet composed approach resonated with viewers.
In response, Ashneer praised Salman, calling him a great actor and an exceptional host. He clarified that signing Salman as a brand ambassador in the past was a strategic move and attempted to explain that his earlier comments might have been misinterpreted during a podcast. Salman concluded the interaction with his characteristic candour, appreciating Ashneer’s current attitude as more genuine than before.
The exchange quickly became a trending topic on social media. Fans lauded Salman for addressing the issue tactfully, with some calling it a “masterclass in shutting down arrogance.” One user tweeted about Ashneer’s “fake statements” being exposed, while another applauded Salman for handling the matter with grace.
Ashneer, following the backlash, took to social media to share his side of the story. In a detailed post, he reaffirmed his admiration for Salman and clarified the timeline of their association. He highlighted that he met Salman in 2019 for a brand collaboration meeting and acknowledged that, at the time, he was not a public figure, making it understandable if Salman didn’t remember him.
In his statement, Ashneer praised Salman’s professionalism, business acumen, and hosting skills. He also confirmed the authenticity of his financial claims, asserting that all figures he mentioned had been verified by auditors. Ashneer concluded by thanking Salman and sharing a photo of them together, which he had recently obtained.
I hope you enjoyed the Bigg Boss weekend ka vaar ! I had good fun. And I am sure the particular episode got great TRP / viewership. BTW all of statements below are TRUE:
– Salman is a great host & actor
– Salman knows what works on Bigg Boss
– I’ve always praised Salman for his… pic.twitter.com/HH0iOzzZY3— Ashneer Grover (@Ashneer_Grover) November 18, 2024
“I hope you enjoyed the Bigg Boss weekend ka vaar ! I had good fun. And I am sure the particular episode got great TRP / viewership. BTW all of statements below are TRUE:
– Salman is a great host & actor
– Salman knows what works on Bigg Boss
– I’ve always praised Salman for his sense of self and business – not a single thing demeaning said for him ever
– My deal numbers are always correct (bank / auditor verified)
– Met Salman in an exclusive meeting on the brand collab for 3 hours in May 2019 in JW Marriott Juhu – along with the director of ad (it’s ok if he doesn’t remember me – I was not a public figure then – he meets tons of people)
– The invite for coming as guest on Bigg Boss was not ‘unnamed’ – just like the cheque for the same ;)
And finally I’ve a pic with him – which I didn’t earlier ;)
Thanks @BeingSalmanKhan . Keep rocking !,” Ashneer Grover tweeted.