The stakes have dramatically shifted on Bigg Boss Telugu Season 10, hosted by superstar Nagarjuna Akkineni, as the grand prize money for the eventual winner has been slashed by ₹15 lakh. This significant reduction, bringing the total down from ₹50 lakh to ₹35 lakh, follows wild card contestant Mithilesh Reddy's decision to accept a cash offer and voluntarily exit the popular reality show.

Mithilesh Accepts Cash, Departs Early

In a recent episode filled with tension and strategic choices, Mithilesh Reddy, who entered the house as a wild card after gaining recognition from the show Agnipariksha, was presented with a unique opportunity. Bigg Boss extended a cash offer to the housemates, which began at ₹5 lakh and progressively increased. The offer eventually reached ₹15 lakh, prompting contestants to weigh the option of continuing their journey against securing a substantial sum of money.

Mithilesh ultimately opted for the cash prize, concluding his tenure on the show. Explaining his choice, Mithilesh indicated that as a recent addition to the house, he anticipated challenges in forging strong relationships and alliances, given that other contestants had already established their dynamics. He characterized his decision to take the money and leave as a "practical decision."

Prize Money Impact and Housemate Reactions

While Mithilesh's departure secured him ₹15 lakh, it came at a direct cost to the remaining competitors. Bigg Boss formally announced that the accepted amount would be subtracted from the original ₹50 lakh winner's prize pool, leaving the eventual victor with ₹35 lakh. This revelation immediately sparked a wave of varied reactions and intense discussions among the housemates, as they grappled with the implications for their own pursuit of the title.

The financial consequence of Mithilesh’s exit reportedly led to considerable friction within the house. Reports suggest that fellow contestants Thrigun and Aman engaged in a heated argument directly related to the impact of the prize money reduction, highlighting the deep divisions and strong opinions among the participants.

Background on Bigg Boss Telugu 10

Bigg Boss Telugu Season 10, also known by its full title Bigg Boss 10: Dasavatharam, premiered on September 6, 2026. The high-profile reality series is broadcast on Star Maa and is also available for streaming on JioHotstar. Hosted by the iconic Nagarjuna Akkineni, the season has been marked by numerous twists and dramatic events, with the latest prize money reduction adding another layer of unpredictability to the competition as contestants vie for the much-coveted title.