Zulfikar Syed, Bigg Boss 2’s second runner-up, opens up about entering showbiz without a film background, his shift to music, and reveals he’s still game for reality TVHe started in the ramp in the late 1990s and played Prince Khurram in Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story, Zulfikar Syed better known as Zulfi Syed has worn many hats. The model-turned-actor, who finished as second runner-up in Bigg Boss Season 2 in 2008, is now making waves as DJ Zulfi. Coming from a non-entertainment background, Zulfi says it was curiosity, not connections, that pulled him in. “I didn’t come from a film family or know anyone in entertainment,” Zulfi says. “I was just curious. Storytelling, music, performing—I’ve always loved that world.”For him, it was about connection. “Creativity lets you reach people. That’s what pulled me in. Modeling came first, then acting followed. Each step showed me something new. About the craft. About myself.”For Zulfi, the industry was less about glamour and more about grit. “The industry felt like a place where passion could turn into purpose. My journey has been built on hard work, patience, and self-belief. No shortcuts, just consistent effort and a love for creating. Every challenge shaped me, and I’m grateful for where it’s led,” he adds.More than 15 years after Bigg Boss, would he step back into the reality space? “Why not?” he says without hesitation. “Reality shows give audiences a chance to know the real person behind the screen. If the concept looks interesting aswell as challenging, aligns with my personality, and fits into my schedule, I will surely consider it. I enjoy exploring, experiencing new opportunities and stepping outside my comfort zone.”For him, the draw is authenticity. “For me, it’s about authenticity and connection, not just entertainment. If a show lets me share my journey honestly while challenging me in fresh ways, I’m open to it. Growth comes from saying yes to the unexpected, and reality TV could be that next step.” As for his Bigg Boss ties, Zulfi admits the friendships have endured, even if time is scarce. “Yes, I’m in touch with a few of them. Life gets busy and everyone has their own commitments, so it’s not possible to meet or speak regularly. But whenever we do connect, it’s always warm and genuine. Bigg Boss creates a unique bond because you share an experience that very few people truly understand.”
