Udupi: Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 runner-up Rakshita Shetty received an overwhelming and emotional welcome from fans during her visit to her home district, with a massive roadshow organised at Hejamady in Kapu taluk on January 21. The celebratory procession reflected the strong bond Rakshita shares with the coastal belt and highlighted her immense popularity following her successful journey on the reality show.
Massive roadshow draws hundreds of fans
The roadshow began at Hejamady, where Rakshita Shetty arrived amid loud cheers, drumbeats and festive fervour. She was taken in an open vehicle from Hejamady to Padubidri, covering key stretches where fans lined up on both sides of the road to catch a glimpse of their favourite star. Hundreds of supporters, including youngsters, families and elderly fans, turned up to welcome her, turning the entire stretch into a celebratory corridor.
Firecrackers were burst, flower petals were showered on the procession, and fans chanted Rakshita’s name repeatedly. Throughout the roadshow, she stood in the open vehicle, waving at the crowd with folded hands and smiling warmly, visibly moved by the love and affection shown by the people.
Traditional honour reflects coastal pride
In keeping with coastal traditions, Rakshita Shetty was honoured with a shawl and garlands by her supporters and local well-wishers. The gesture symbolised respect and pride, with fans acknowledging her achievement in reaching the finale of Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 and representing the coastal region on a major television platform.
She took time to interact with fans wherever the procession slowed down, exchanging greetings, posing for photographs and thanking them for their unwavering support throughout the show. Many fans described her as “down-to-earth” and “rooted”, qualities that they felt resonated strongly with the people of the region.
‘Bangude is my favourite’: moment that stole hearts
One of the most talked-about moments of the roadshow was when Rakshita Shetty was seen holding a bangude (mackerel) fish and walking joyfully alongside her fans for a short distance. The act instantly struck a chord with the coastal crowd, for whom bangude is more than just a fish—it is a cultural and culinary symbol.
Speaking on the occasion, Rakshita said with a smile, “Bangude and bhutayi fish dishes are my all-time favourites.” Her remark drew loud applause and cheers, with many fans praising her for proudly celebrating coastal food culture.
Videos and photographs of this moment quickly began circulating on social media, with fans calling it a perfect representation of her connection to her roots.
Celebration turns into cultural festivity
From Hejamady to Padubidri, the roadshow turned into a vibrant celebration marked by traditional music, dance and spontaneous performances by fans. Local youth groups played drums, while some supporters danced along the route, creating a festive atmosphere more akin to a local festival than a celebrity reception.
The event remained peaceful and well-coordinated, with fans ensuring that Rakshita could move comfortably while still engaging with the crowd. Many attendees said the roadshow felt personal rather than promotional, as Rakshita repeatedly expressed gratitude and acknowledged familiar faces from her hometown.
Popularity beyond the Bigg Boss house
Rakshita Shetty’s reception underlined how her popularity has grown beyond the Bigg Boss house. While she narrowly missed the title, her journey on the show—marked by resilience, emotional strength and authenticity—has earned her a dedicated fan base, particularly in the coastal districts.
Fans said they admired her for staying true to herself and representing coastal values with dignity on a widely watched platform. Several supporters expressed confidence that the love she received would translate into new opportunities in television, films or digital platforms.
Conclusion
The grand welcome accorded to Rakshita Shetty during her homecoming was not just a celebration of a reality show achievement but a reflection of the deep emotional connect she shares with the coastal region. The roadshow, marked by tradition, culture and genuine affection, reaffirmed her status as a beloved local icon and showcased the pride of Udupi and surrounding areas in one of their own.