In an exclusive conversation with Pinkvilla, Arbaz from MTV Splitsvilla X5 sets the record straight regarding his relationship with Leeza and denounces the false accusations made by Nayera Ahuja.
MTV Splitsvilla X5 has been making waves due to the presence of some controversial contestants, notably Arbaz Patel and Nayera Ahuja. The two shared a connection on the show and collaborated on various tasks.
However, following the show’s conclusion, Ahuja publicly accused Patel of being in a pre-existing relationship before his participation in the show. She also alleged that Patel had romantically pursued her, leading her to believe that he harbored feelings for her.
Now, Arbaz Patel breaks his silence for the first time, providing his perspective exclusively to Pinkvilla. He addresses the speculation surrounding his relationship status and dismisses Nayera’s claims as a mere publicity stunt.
Arbaz Patel on dating Leeza Bindra before the shoot of MTV Splitsvilla X5
Addressing the matter, Arbaz Patel stated, “The allegations are completely false. Leeza and I were not in a relationship prior to the shoot of MTV Splitsvilla X5. While we did share mutual feelings, we chose not to express them as we prioritized our individual careers. We have been acquainted for five years, and the couple-themed videos we posted were simply for entertainment purposes. Our intention was to engage our audience, who responded positively to such content. Contrary to rumors, we were neither dating, engaged, nor married, as some have suggested.”
Arbaz Patel on realizing love for Leeza
“During my time on Splitsvilla, I gradually realized my deep feelings and affection for Leeza. Although physically present in the villa, emotionally, my mind and heart became increasingly drawn to her. I confided in Nayera, expressing, ‘I don’t feel at home here.’ Additionally, I found myself unable to develop romantic feelings for anyone else during the show. Upon returning home after the shoot, I decided to explore my emotions for Leeza further.”
He continued, “Leeza also shared with me her struggles in my absence during the shoot. With both of us acknowledging our feelings, we confessed our love for each other. We are now in a committed relationship. This transition occurred after the conclusion of the show.”
Arbaz Patel questions the claims of his affair with Leeza
“I had an extensive meeting with the producers during which they inquired about various aspects, including my association with Leeza in our videos. I clarified that those videos were solely collaborative content. Despite the show’s premise involving the inclusion of ex-partners, the producers struggled to locate anyone from my past relationships.”
He further explained, “In the case of Dewangini, the producers managed to find her ex (Divyansh) even though his social media profile was private. If there were any doubts regarding Leeza, they could have easily reached out to her given her public profile. However, they did not do so, as there was no romantic involvement between us. The producers also confirmed that they were unable to find any ex-partners associated with me. It’s perplexing why such baseless allegations are being circulated.”
Arbaz Patel’s conversation with Nayera Ahuja
“I had a minor accident and had to seek medical assistance. Upon returning to the villa, I noticed a few wildcard entries. However, everyone had already formed connections. I thought Nayera would be a suitable partner considering her background as a Roadie and her strength. I proposed teaming up with her for challenges. When I asked her, she mentioned her existing connection with Lakshya. I then inquired if she prioritized finding love or performing challenges to win the show.”
“She expressed that she wasn’t seeking love, saying, ‘No, buddy, I’ve been hurt once in a previous show. Am I crazy to fall in love again? I want to focus on performing challenges.’ That aligned with my mindset, so I suggested teaming up,” he explained.
Regarding his reference to Nayera as his ‘sherni’ (lioness), Arbaz clarified, “I was labeled as the Lion in the show, and whoever I paired up with would be the Lioness. Nayera was a formidable competitor, fierce in her approach, hence the term ‘Lioness’ (sherni). It didn’t carry any romantic implications.”
Arbaz Patel on gifting a bracelet to Nayera Ahuja
“During the date, Nayera shared with me her past experiences of feeling mistreated and unloved. In response, I assured her of my support and commitment, which I followed through on. I aimed to make the date appear genuine, considering we were on national television. To add some intrigue, I gifted her the bracelet.”
“However, this decision stemmed from a prior discussion where we both agreed that pursuing ‘love’ on the show was not our priority. I didn’t anticipate it would generate significant attention or be misinterpreted,” he elaborated.
Arbaz Patel accuses Nayera Ahuja for playing victim card
“When both parties have previously agreed on the show’s objectives, why tarnish my character and reputation? Our decision to partner was based on mutual agreement; she sought strength from me, and I from her. Together, we performed and progressed in the show. There was no exploitation on my part.”
Further clarifying, he added, “Our collaboration was mutually beneficial. The extent of my support for her during the show will become evident. However, vague allegations of heartbreak and false promises are unfounded. It seems she seeks sympathy and portrays herself as a victim, when in reality, our partnership propelled us both forward in the game.”
MTV Splitsvilla X5, hosted by Sunny Leone and Tanuj Virwani, features Uofi Javed as the Mischief Maker.