“This was the toughest season I’ve ever done,” says Karan Wahi on COLORS’ ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’

COLORS’ ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’ returns with its most daring chapter yet – Darr Ka Naya Daur, where fear evolves, the challenges become tougher, and every stunt pushes contestants to the edge. Hosted by the absolute king of action, Rohit Shetty against the stunning terrains of Cape Town, the season promises an intense battle of courage, composure, and survival. The upcoming edition marks the explosive return of television heartthrob Karan Wahi. Signalling his intent, Wahi reveals that saying yes to the show is an easy decision. Describing Khatron Ke Khiladi as one of his favourite reality shows, he reveals that it’s the extraordinary experiences, cherished memories, the chance to work with Rohit Shetty, and the thrill of the journey that keep bringing him back.

1. You’re returning to ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’ for the third time. Did you accept the offer instantly, or did you take some time before saying yes?
A. I said yes immediately. Khatron Ke Khiladi has always been one of my favourite shows. It has given me so much, not just professionally, but personally as well. Very few people get an opportunity like this even once, and I was getting it for the third time, so there was no reason to say no. Honestly, I am not fond of jumping off 500-foot heights or holding snakes! The biggest reason I keep coming back is Rohit sir. He’s like an elder brother to me. No matter how scared you are, he’s always there, and somehow that gives you the confidence that you’ll get through it. Spending time with him is one of the biggest reasons I return to this show.

2. What does ‘Darr Ka Naya Daur’ mean for you, especially as someone returning to the show?
A. “OG” sounds great, but I don’t think experience is necessarily an advantage or a disadvantage. The only thing experience gives you is an understanding of how the show works. But you only realise what a stunt is truly like when you’re standing there about to perform it. For the newcomers, not knowing what to expect may have seemed like a disadvantage, but in many ways, it worked in their favour. It was like experiencing an electric shock, you never truly knew how intense it was until you went through it yourself. Those of us who had been there before were often more nervous because we knew exactly what was coming. Every season brought new stunts and fresh challenges, and the makers knew exactly how to push and test each contestant in different ways. In the end, anticipation had both its advantages and its drawbacks, and once the competition began, everyone found themselves on an equal footing.

3. This season is being called one of the toughest ever. How different was it from your previous journeys?
A. This was the toughest season I’ve done. The stunts were more dangerous, the intensity was much higher, and we barely had any breathing space. It was also my shortest Khatron Ke Khiladi journey in terms of shooting days, so we were constantly on our toes. There was hardly any time to relax because you were always preparing for the next stunt. Even after two seasons, this show knew how to scare me. Also, after six years, I realised how much social media had changed. Earlier, we didn’t have this constant online conversation around every moment. This time, there was definitely an added layer of pressure because everything is discussed instantly.

4. You built several new friendships this season. Who surprised you the most?
A. I bonded with a lot of people this season. I genuinely think Rithvik and I come as a package. I don’t think people enjoy us individually as much as they enjoy watching us together. We’ve been friends for almost 14–15 years, and when you’re friends in real life, that chemistry naturally shows on screen. We’re completely different personalities, and I think that’s exactly why audiences connect with us. Apart from Rithvik, I spent the most time with Avinash because we even shared the same vanity. He’s extremely disciplined, so I made it my mission to spoil all his healthy habits by feeding him chocolates and chips. I also really enjoyed spending time with Gaurav, Jasmine, Vishal, Farah, Ruhaanika and Harsh. Harsh is hilarious. The biggest surprise for me, though, was Orry. Once I got to know him, I realised he’s one of the smartest and most intelligent people I’ve ever met. He’s completely different from the image people have of him.

5. We all remember the python stunt where Ravi was upset with you. If you find yourself in a similar situation again, are you ready for it?
A. Bring it on! Throw as many pythons at me as you want. Honestly, I wasn’t scared then either. The game is never about the stunt alone; it’s about how you react in that moment. If the competition were based purely on strength, the strongest contestants would always win, but that’s never the case. In my opinion, Rithvik has been one of the strongest contestants across all his seasons. He’s naturally adventurous, yet he hasn’t won. A lot depended on luck, how the day unfolded, and how calm I managed to stay. I simply tried to perform better than I had the last time. And if I didn’t, I just hoped they’d invite me back once again.

6. Is there a message you’d like to share with everyone who’ll be cheering for you this season?
A. I genuinely believe this is the toughest season Khatron Ke Khiladi has ever had. Around 85% of the stunts are completely new, and that’s what makes this season so exciting. There were moments when I genuinely wondered why I had signed up for this! But today, I’m genuinely happy that I did. I just hope everyone enjoys watching this season as much as we enjoyed making it. Keep supporting your favourite contestants but also spread kindness and encourage everyone. That’s what makes reality shows even more enjoyable. Thank you so much for all the love.

Maruti Suzuki presents ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’, co-powered by Hero Xtreme, Thums Up and JK Super Cement, Special Partners – Jeena Sikho Ayurveda, Nirma Advance, Onn Premium Wear, Nivea Rollon and Berger Paints, Outdoor Gear Partner- Woodland, Hunger Partner – Snickers, Food Partner – Silver Coin Chakki Fresh Atta and Associate Sponsor – Parle Monaco, airing every Saturday -Sunday at 9:00 pm only on COLORS & JioHotstar.