The Brink of Bankruptcy
By the turn of the millennium, Amitabh Bachchan's career was in a significant slump. A string of films in the late 90s failed to make a mark at the box office. Compounding the professional crisis was a devastating financial one. His entertainment company,
Amitabh Bachchan Corporation Ltd. (ABCL), had gone bankrupt, leaving him with debts reported to be over ₹90 crore. It was a dark period for the superstar, with creditors at his door and his properties at risk. He was not getting film work, and the man who was once the nation's biggest star faced an uncertain future.
A Risky Leap to the Small Screen
In 2000, the idea of a top-tier film star hosting a television show was almost unthinkable in India; it was widely seen as a step down. When the offer to host the Indian adaptation of 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' came, Bachchan was hesitant, and his family and peers advised against it, fearing it would damage his larger-than-life image. However, his financial circumstances were dire, and he needed the work. The show's producers, particularly Sameer Nair of Star Plus, were convinced that Bachchan was the only choice, believing his command of Hindi and English and his appeal to a family audience were crucial for success. To convince him, they flew him to London to witness a live taping of the UK version.
The 'KBC' Phenomenon
Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) premiered on July 3, 2000, and its success was immediate and monumental. The show was a sensation, riveting the entire nation. At 9 PM, streets would empty as families gathered to watch. The format was a hit, but the true force multiplier was Bachchan himself. He wasn't the 'Angry Young Man' from his films. Instead, viewers saw a warm, empathetic, and dignified host who connected with contestants on a personal level. His signature phrases like "Computer-ji, lock kiya jaaye?" became part of the national vocabulary. He was no longer just a distant superstar on the big screen; he was a welcome guest in every living room, every night.
The Second Coming of a Superstar
The overwhelming success of KBC marked a turning point, kickstarting a spectacular second innings for Bachchan. The show resurrected his public image and re-established his connection with audiences across generations. This renewed popularity translated directly back to the big screen. Later that same year, he starred in the blockbuster 'Mohabbatein', where he played a stern, patriarchal figure—a role that perfectly suited his age and stature. This was followed by a series of acclaimed performances in films like 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham...', 'Baghban', and 'Black', cementing his status as a versatile and enduring actor. The financial troubles also faded away as he was able to repay all his debts.
