"You cannot be a hero in everyone's story": Shreya Kalra reflects on 'Lock Upp' journey
Mumbai, August 6
'Lock Upp' winner Shreya Kalra said her victory was a testament to the support she received throughout the reality show, while also responding to criticism over her win and reflecting on some of the controversies that marked her journey.
Speaking at a press conference after lifting the trophy, Kalra dedicated the win to those who stood by her during the competition, crediting her boyfriend Rishabh Jaiswal and co-contestants Shilpa Shinde and Madhuri Grover.
"This win is for my mental trauma that I went through in the show. This belongs to everyone who supported me inside and outside the show - my fans, my family, Rishabh, Shilpa ji and Madhuri ji."
She added that while the trophy belonged to her supporters, the Rs 1 crore prize money would be put to practical use. Kalra said she intends to contribute to a shelter home supported by Shilpa Shinde and invest the remaining amount in property, playfully describing herself as "business-minded."
Addressing criticism from those who questioned whether she deserved to win, Kalra remained firm in her stance.
"I know that I am deserving. Whatever I gave to the show, I did mentally, physically and emotionally. I deserve this trophy and also the prize money. No matter what anyone says, it doesn't matter to me. You cannot be a hero in everyone's story. I know that I am the heroine of my own story. If someone calls me a villain, I will accept it," she added.
Kalra also spoke about her equation with fellow contestant Akanksha Chamola, admitting she regretted revealing a personal detail during the game.
"I shouldn't have done that. I apologised to her a lot and tried to sort it out. If the other person doesn't want to give you a chance, your self-respect also matters. I will give her time," Kalra shared.
The 'Lock Upp' winner expressed concern over the online trolling faced by Shivangi Joshi, saying no contestant deserved sustained hate after the show.
"I don't want anyone to go through that. I have experienced that hate. It mentally disturbs you. She's a very nice human being, and I just want her to stay well," she said.
Reflecting on her overall journey, the reality star said she has moved on from the conflicts that unfolded inside the house.
"The show is done for me. Whatever happened is done and dusted. I'm really grateful that I got this award, the trophy and the one crore rupees. Let me have fun with that. No more controversies, please," Kalra concluded.
Shreya Kalra was officially declared the winner after securing the highest number of final votes.
While Shreya claimed the title, Shilpa Shinde finished as the first runner-up, with Yogesh Rawat securing the second runner-up position. The finale featured five contestants: Shreya Kalra, Shilpa Shinde, Shivangi Joshi, Ram Kapoor and Yogesh Rawat.
The showdown came down to Shreya and Shivangi Joshi. Based on votes cast by the hosts, former contestants and special guests, Shreya secured the maximum votes to lift the coveted trophy.
The closely contested finale saw her defeat Shivangi by a margin of seven votes.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The margin was just 7 votes, which shows how close it was. But I respect her confidence and the way she owned her victory. "You cannot be a hero in everyone's story" - that's a solid mindset for reality TV. She knows not everyone will be happy with her win, and that's okay. Her dedication to Shilpa Shinde and Madhuri Grover shows she values real relationships, not just game strategy.
The way she handled the Akanksha controversy shows maturity. She admitted her mistake, apologised, and respected the other person's space. Reality TV brings out the worst in people, but she maintained her dignity. Also, standing up against online trolling for Shivangi Joshi is a class act. These contestants are real people with real feelings.
I respectfully disagree with her win. Shivangi was more consistent and connected with the audience throughout. But I appreciate Shreya's grace in victory - no arrogance, just gratitude. Reality shows are about entertainment, not just merit. She played the game well, and the audience voted. That's democracy for you! 🇮🇳
The mental health angle is what touched me most. People forget that these participants are away from their families, constantly monitored, and dealing with manufactured drama. The fact that she's using the platform to talk about mental trauma and online hate is important. We need more empathy in this country, especially on social media. Her message about not wanting anyone to go through that hate is something we should all reflect on.
As someone who follows the Indian reality TV
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.