A light-hearted conversation on the reality show Alliance has unexpectedly turned into a social media controversy. Actor Kushal Tandon is facing criticism online after viewers interpreted one of his remarks as an indirect reference to his former relationship with Gauahar Khan during a conversation with her husband, Zaid Darbar. The clip has quickly gone viral, with many internet users questioning both Kushal’s comment and Zaid’s reaction during the exchange.
The incident took place in the latest episode of the reality series hosted by Kunal Kemmu. Although Kushal later described the remark as a joke, the conversation has triggered widespread debate across social media platforms, with several viewers expressing disappointment over how the moment unfolded.
A Casual Conversation That Quickly Went Viral
The moment occurred while Kushal Tandon was chatting with host Mini Mathur in the gym area of the house. During the conversation, Kushal claimed that he had managed to score a “big win” over fellow contestant Zaid Darbar the previous night. Curious about what he meant, Mini asked him to explain, prompting Zaid to reveal that he had borrowed a cigarette from Kushal because the ones he had were, in his words, “bekar” (bad).
Responding to that, Kushal joked, “Tujhe saali, saari meri cheezin pasand aati hai” (“You always like my things”). The remark immediately caught the attention of those present, with many viewers later interpreting it as a reference to Gauahar Khan, whom Kushal dated after the two met on Bigg Boss 7 in 2013.
Mini Mathur appeared visibly surprised by the comment, while Arslan Goni, who entered the competition as Kushal’s alliance partner, quickly stepped in and advised both Kushal and Zaid not to make such remarks on the show. Replying to Arslan, Kushal simply said, “It’s a joke.” Despite that explanation, the clip soon spread across social media, where it generated strong reactions from viewers.
Social Media Questions the Exchange
Many people online believed the joke indirectly referred to Gauahar Khan and criticised the conversation. One user wrote, “This is definitely a new kind of low for these men! Comparing the mother of your children to an object. Disgusting!” Another commented, “I think Gauahar’s husband was completely wrong. What a spineless man. How can he joke about his own wife like that?”
Another viewer posted, “The way Zaid is talking is more disgusting.” One social media user also wrote, “Absolutely disgusting. Girls, stay away from guys like these.” Another comment read, “Being a husband, how is he tolerating this?” While criticism was largely directed at Kushal and Zaid, many viewers praised Arslan Goni for immediately asking them to avoid making such remarks instead of laughing along with the conversation.
Neither Kushal Tandon, Zaid Darbar, nor Gauahar Khan has publicly responded to the online criticism at the time of writing. As the clip continues circulating across social media, the discussion has shifted from the reality show itself to the boundaries of humour involving personal relationships and public figures.
Gauahar and Kushal’s Past Relationship
Kushal Tandon and Gauahar Khan first met during Bigg Boss 7 in 2013, where their relationship became one of the most talked-about aspects of the season. The couple dated for some time before announcing their separation in 2014. Years later, Gauahar found love again with choreographer and content creator Zaid Darbar.
Gauahar and Zaid got engaged in 2020 before tying the knot in December the same year. The couple welcomed their first son, Zehaan, in 2023, followed by their second son in 2025. They have frequently shared moments from their family life on social media and remain among the most popular celebrity couples online.
Meanwhile, Alliance continues to generate attention with its constantly changing alliances and unexpected twists. Hosted by Kunal Kemmu, the reality competition recently witnessed the elimination of Vanshaj Singh, while Ravi Kishan voluntarily exited the show to resume his parliamentary responsibilities. New contestants including Sohail Khan, Vriddhi Patwa, and Agu Stanley Chiedozie have since entered the game, bringing fresh dynamics as the competition moves forward.
