Bigg Boss 18 has been making headlines for its dramatic twists and turns, but one of the most striking dynamics in the show is the apparent duplication between Karan Veer Mehra and Chum Darang. While Mehra has been steadily winning the hearts of viewers with her outgoing and genuine personality, Darang's constant need for validation and group affirmation has many fans puzzled.
Recent comments from Vivian Dsena, who finds himself in a different clique altogether, have brought attention to Chum Darang's apparent lack of individuality. Dsena's statement that Chum Darang is 'Karan Veer Mehra's shadow' seems to hold merit as both contestants started off the season as friends but have had divergent paths ever since.
Karan Veer Mehra, who has emerged as one of the early contenders for the show, continues to forge friendships and secure alliances that largely contribute to her increasing popularity. She has managed to convince even the toughest opponents that her strengths and good-natured attitude make her an outstanding housemate.
Chum Darang's growing dependence on Mehra, however, has sparked concerns over Darang's inability to form a distinct identity for herself. More times than not, Darang tends to tread Mehra's path, which some participants perceive as a move to amplify her own image.
According to views from insider circles and a popular line of reasoning, the need for validation can be considered human nature, though, Darang's response may raise eyebrows. Dsena, being one of the members who keep a considerable distance from Mehra and her clique, will undoubtedly find the shifting trends of who makes it in their so-called dominant group truly interesting.
Much of Bigg Boss 18 looks and drama centers around alliances and emotional manipulation - tactics to manipulate others and gain a strategic ground - and groups like those comprised of Avinash Mishra, Eisha Singh, and Vivian Dsena that may still outplay Mehra's camp to reach the end goal. Would Chum Darang's decision to constantly align herself with Mehra bring out strong rewards in the end, or would these methods backfire and diminish her potential of excelling in the show?