The countdown has begun for Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9, and this year’s edition promises to be more exciting than ever. Hosted once again by Nagarjuna Akkineni, the show is introducing a game-changing twist — commoners and social media influencers will now get a chance to share the stage with celebrities. And it all starts with the brand-new digital pre-show segment, Bigg Boss Agnipariksha.
Bigg Boss Telugu 9 Agnipariksha Start Date & Streaming Platform
- Premiere: 22 August 2025 – 5 September 2025
- Platform: JioHotstar (digital exclusive)
- Main Show Launch: 7 September 2025 on Star Maa & JioHotstar
What is Bigg Boss Telugu 9 Agnipariksha?
Agnipariksha is the entry-level challenge for aspiring contestants who want to make it into the Bigg Boss house. Around 40 influencers applied through video submissions, and after several screening rounds, 15 finalists have been chosen to face off in intense tasks.
Only 5 of these contestants will ultimately secure a spot inside the main Bigg Boss house.
Bigg Boss Telugu 9 Judges & Host Line-up
- Judges: Abhijeet Duddala (Bigg Boss 4 winner), Navdeep, and Bindu Madhavi (Bigg Boss Non-Stop winner)



- Host: Sreemukhi, known for her energetic and engaging presence

15 Contestants in the Bigg Boss Telugu 9 Agnipariksha Challenge
The full list of contestants has created quite a buzz online. Some notable names include:
Anusha Ratnam

Demon Pavan

Dhaliya
Dammu Srija

Divya Nikitha (Fried Momo)
Influencer Shakir
Mask Man Hriday
Military Pawan
Miss Telangana Kalki
Maryadha Madan
Prasana Kumar (Body Builder)

Prashanth (Lawyer)
Priya
Shreya Bangalore
Swetha Shetty
Nagarjuna’s Record-Breaking Remuneration
Nagarjuna’s return as the Bigg Boss Telugu host has been accompanied by reports of a staggering paycheck for this season, making headlines even before the first episode airs.
Why Bigg Boss Telugu 9 Agnipariksha is a Game-Changer
This is the first time Bigg Boss Telugu is giving commoners and influencers a chance to battle for a spot in the house alongside celebrities. The format promises:
- More diverse personalities
- Fresh drama and unpredictable alliances
- A blend of real-life experience and social media influence
Final Thoughts
With the Agnipariksha starting on 22 August, the excitement levels are already through the roof. Whether you’re rooting for a celebrity, a social media influencer, or a complete newcomer, this pre-show challenge is set to deliver high-voltage entertainment before the main season even begins.
Stay tuned — because in Bigg Boss Telugu 9, the real game starts before the game.