Gautam Gulati’s journey in showbiz came full circle when he joined the judging panel for the 19th season of Roadies -- Karm Ya Kaand, the same reality show he had auditioned for around 17 years ago. He recalls, “Though my audition went well, I was rejected. So, when the makers offered me to join the show as a judge, I decided to take it up and check it off my list.”

The show has become a topic of discussion due to the ongoing and constant conflicts between Prince Narula and his co-judges Gautam and Rhea Chakraborty. Talking about his altercations with Prince, Gautam says, “I don’t understand what his problem is. I used to like him but that was before I witnessed his dual personality. He is short-tempered and is probably not happy about the presence of new judges. I overlooked his brash behaviour for as long as possible, but when he went overboard, I had a discussion with the channel. Even Salman Khan called him and told him that he was roped in as a judge and he should act like one. Though he apologized, he was soon back to his rude self. Some people don’t change. Aap badtamameezi kar lo, bolo ki aapki aukaat kya hai... he may believe its good for the show but I don’t agree with it. We have to consider the young viewers. Maybe, Prince likes doing all of that. It’s better to distance myself from him. I can’t stoop to his level. However, if he disrespects me again, I will take a strong step.”

He adds, “I am way senior to this guy. It’s fine not to respect your senior, but don’t disrespect him. He has won a few reality shows, and I have done 25 shows. However, I don’t believe in boasting or flaunting my achievements or wealth, as it is against my principles. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what was happening on the show, and I found it shallow. Maybe, my presence is becoming a problem for him. If he feels intimidated by me, it’s not my problem. He can claim that the show is an emotion for him, but I believe I am more dedicated and committed to it.”

Talking about his journey in showbiz, after winning Bigg Boss 8 (2015), Gautam took a break from daily soaps to focus on films. However, his Bollywood career didn’t take off the way it was expected to. 

Ask him about it, and he replies, “I am not desperate for work and prioritize quality over quantity. Besides, filhaal bade badon ki films nahin chal rahi hain. Risk lekar hain mujhe bhi koi kaam nahi karna. I will wait to take up a project that resonates with me. Everyone knows how difficult it is for an outsider to make a breakthrough in films. Earlier, I was a bit impulsive and would take up projects only to eventually realize that either my role was reduced or the film didn’t release. It was a difficult phase but I chose not to blame anyone. Currently, I am reading some scripts and hopefully will soon be seen on an OTT platform. In the meantime, I am focusing on my businesses. An actor must have an alternative source of income to avoid any financial difficulties.”