Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan recently celebrated a significant milestone as his iconic game show, Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), marked its 25th anniversary.
A Quarter-Century of KBC
Amitabh Bachchan, often affectionately called “Big B,” took to Instagram to share his reflections on this special occasion. He revealed that while preparing for the upcoming season of KBC, his team reminded him of the show’s premiere date.
It was on July 3, 2000, that the very first episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati aired, making it a remarkable 25-year journey for the popular quiz show.
From UK Hit to Indian Sensation
For those unfamiliar, KBC is the successful Indian adaptation of the globally renowned British game show, “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”. It first launched on Star Plus and quickly became a household name across India.
Amitabh Bachchan has been the face of KBC for almost its entire run. The only exception was the show’s third season, which saw superstar Shah Rukh Khan step into the host’s shoes.
Overcoming Initial Hesitation
Getting Amitabh Bachchan on board for KBC was no easy feat, according to Sameer Nair, who led the programming team that commissioned the show. In an exclusive interview, Nair recalled the challenges they faced.
Many people close to the actor, including his wife Jaya Bachchan, initially advised him against venturing into television. They felt it might “shrink him to the small screen,” given his superstar status in films.
The Shah Rukh Khan Interlude and Revival
Nair also shared that Amitabh Bachchan declined to host the third season, leading to Shah Rukh Khan taking over. However, that season didn’t quite capture the same magic.
The credit for KBC’s enduring success and revival, Nair noted, goes to Sony. After Star let go of the show, Sony picked it up and significantly built upon its legacy over the last decade, leading to its 25th anniversary.
KBC: A Career Turning Point
The launch of Kaun Banega Crorepati wasn’t just a new venture for Indian television; it marked a pivotal moment in Amitabh Bachchan’s career. At the time, he was navigating through considerable creative and financial difficulties.
The immense success of KBC not only brought him into millions of Indian homes but also firmly re-established him as a beloved household name, this time on the small screen, proving his unparalleled versatility and charisma.
- Kaun Banega Crorepati aired its first episode on July 3, 2000, celebrating 25 years.
- Amitabh Bachchan has hosted nearly all seasons, except for the third, which featured Shah Rukh Khan.
- Initially, many, including Jaya Bachchan, advised Amitabh against joining television.
- KBC’s success played a crucial role in revitalizing Amitabh Bachchan’s career during a challenging period.
KBC continues to be a fan favorite, eagerly anticipated by millions who look forward to its unique blend of knowledge, drama, and heartfelt moments, all guided by its iconic host.
