Shehzad Poonawalla wins Rise and Fall 2, takes home Rs 35 lakh prize

Former BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla has won the title of Rise and Fall 2. He entered the show after leaving the party. The show, hosted by Virender Sehwag, has found its new Ultimate Ruler.

Poonawalla beat 15 celebrities. He received a cash prize of Rs 35 lakh along with the trophy. Television actor Priyanka Chahar Choudhary was the first runner-up, while Gautam Gulati was the second runner-up.

The grand finale evening began with stage performances by the top six finalists. Former contestants also returned, bringing back memories for everyone. Comedian Harsh Gujral kept the audience laughing with his jokes. The mood turned emotional at the sight of the finalists' families. But there were twists in store.

In the Fortune Floor pyramid challenge, Niharika Tiwari fell behind and was eliminated. With her exit, the tower had its top five finalists.

The contest grew tougher in the top five. All eyes were on the trophy. Then the tower's lights turned red, signalling another elimination. This time Karan Patel, regarded as the show's shrewdest player, and Swara Bhasker, known for speaking her mind, were out. Both were strong players, and their exit came as a shock to all.

Only three remained: Shehzad Poonawalla, Priyanka Chahar Choudhary and Gautam Gulati. All eyes were on who would win.

In the end, Poonawalla won. With the trophy in his hands, he said he did not know what to say. "It is hard to put into words what winning Rise and Fall 2 means. From the top floor of the tower to the tension of the basement, the whole journey was very difficult."

He added, "At every turn I had to change myself. Sometimes doubt crept in, but I always felt that I would do it. For this platform, I am sincerely grateful to the makers, Prime Video and Banijay Asia."

Poonawalla's game was different from the start. He played quietly but made his moves at the right time, which kept him in the game till the end. Chahar Choudhary also played very well and challenged him until the last. Gulati was not far behind either, but in the end luck and gameplay were both with Poonawalla.

The season entertained viewers greatly, with fights, friendships, games and emotion. Viewers are now waiting for the next season.