Zaid Darbar Apologises to Gauahar Khan Over Kushal Tandon's Joke: "It's My Fault..."

A controversy that began inside the reality show 'Alliance' has now led to a public apology from contestant Zaid Darbar. The choreographer and content creator addressed the backlash surrounding a comment made by actor Kushal Tandon, which many viewers believed was aimed at Gauahar Khan, Kushal's former girlfriend and Zaid's wife.

The incident sparked discussions across social media, with several users criticising the remark and expressing support for Gauahar. In response to the growing backlash, production company Banijay Asia shared an apology video featuring Zaid on Instagram. The video has since garnered attention from fans, including Gauahar herself.

Zaid Darbar Apologises:

In the video, Zaid apologised with folded hands and admitted that he had not understood the impact of the comment when it was made. “Sometimes, I just get carried away with my life. I didn't realize it. What Kushal said was wrong. And I took it lightly. It's my fault.”

Zaid further clarified that he never intended to hurt anyone and hoped people would understand his character and intentions. “I'm sorry. Really sorry. And I hope you understand what I am. You know me. You know what kind of a person I am. I can't hurt anyone. I can hurt myself, but I can't hurt anyone around me. That's the truth.”

The apology came after wildcard contestant Vanshaj Singh informed Zaid that Kushal's remark had resulted in intense trolling and criticism directed at Gauahar Khan online.

Gauahar Khan Reacts:

Soon after the video was posted, Gauahar Khan responded in the comments section and extended her support to her husband. The actress suggested that viewers should not take every joke seriously and advised Zaid not to be influenced by the politics of the game.

“Vanshaj is playing. Masti is ok, coz u know every silly thing doesn't mean one gets offended. U are right, don't get swayed by dirty play. Keep rocking Jaanu.” Her response quickly grabbed attention and was appreciated by fans who praised her calm and mature handling of the situation.

What Sparked The Controversy?

The controversy stemmed from a conversation between Kushal Tandon, Zaid Darbar, and Mini Mathur in the gym area of 'Alliance'. During the interaction, Zaid mentioned that he had borrowed a cigarette from Kushal because the ones he had were "bekar" (bad).

Reacting to this, Kushal joked, “Tujhe saali, saari meri cheezin pasand aati hai.”

The remark immediately drew attention because many viewers interpreted it as a reference to Gauahar Khan, who was previously in a relationship with Kushal. Mini appeared visibly shocked by the comment, while fellow contestant Arslan Goni advised the duo against making such remarks on the show. Defending himself, Kushal responded, “It's a joke.”

Kushal and Gauahar's Past:

Kushal Tandon and Gauahar Khan met on 'Bigg Boss 7' in 2013 and soon became one of television's most talked-about couples. However, the pair parted ways in 2014.

Years later, Gauahar found love with Zaid Darbar. The couple got engaged in 2020 and tied the knot in December that year. They welcomed their first son, Zehaan, in 2023 and became parents again in 2025. Despite the recent controversy, Gauahar's latest response makes it clear that she is choosing to support her husband while moving past the unnecessary drama surrounding the comment.

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