New Delhi: Kaun Banega Crorepati, hosted by Mega Star Amitabh Bachchan, became a television phenomenon soon after its launch in July 2000, but the quiz
show was far from an obvious choice for prime time. Sameer Nair, who headed programming at Star Plus when the show was being developed, has recalled the scepticism surrounding the Indian adaptation of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire.
According to Nair, the production was “ten times more expensive” than other Indian television shows at the time. The decision to cast Bachchan also raised eyebrows because the British original was not fronted by a film star.
Nair said Bachchan stood out because of his command of both Hindi and English. He also believed the actor had a special connection with the show’s core television audience. “Bachchan was the only actor with that kind of proficiency in both Hindi and English,” he said, adding that for mothers controlling the television remote, Bachchan remained the beloved hero of their generation.
Bachchan himself agreed to host the show after watching a live taping of the British version. The Indian production retained the original show’s format and layout, but several elements were adapted for Indian viewers. Bachchan moved effortlessly between Hindi and English, while his now-famous “computer-ji” became part of the show’s identity.
The questions were also tailored to Indian audiences, with Nair recalling that they included “large elements of Indian mythology and history”.
Despite the elaborate production and Bachchan’s star power, KBC was initially dismissed by several people around the channel. Nair recalled being told, “Who puts a quiz show on prime time? Where have you brought Amit ji from? Indians don’t even like this!”
The show eventually proved those doubts completely wrong. KBC quickly became a television sensation and played a significant role in reviving Bachchan’s career during a difficult phase. The actor had been dealing with professional and financial troubles before the show gave him a major comeback. His appearance in Yash Raj Films’ Mohabbatein later that year further strengthened his return to the mainstream.
More than two decades after its debut, Bachchan continues to host KBC. The show is currently in its 18th season.
Story of Dr Prachi Rathod
His latest stint on the quiz show has also brought attention to the personal stories of its contestants. In a recent episode, Dr Prachi Rathod spoke about her gender transformation, the rejection she faced and the people who supported her through the journey.
Prachi told Bachchan, “Sir, obviously, ever since childhood, until I told my family that I wanted to undergo this transformation, my parents, siblings and the entire family were there for me. But somewhere, they refused to accept me. That was when, sir, I found another family in Hyderabad, where six havelis (transgender communities) live.”
She explained that the community encouraged her “to continue my education, move forward in life and fulfil the dreams my father had for me”, ensuring “that they would always stand by me”.
Understanding her many difficulties she faced, Bachchan praised Prachi for she “never hesitated to tell the world about what happened to you”.
He went on to congratulate her for completing her education and becoming a medical professional who now treats patients.
