The iconic quiz show “Kaun Banega Crorepati” (KBC) has returned with its 16th season, continuing its legacy of entertaining and educating viewers across India. Hosted by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, KBC has become a cultural phenomenon since its debut 24 years ago. While many are familiar with the show’s format and its grandeur, there are several intriguing aspects of KBC and Amitabh Bachchan’s involvement that might surprise you.
1. A Timely Tradition: The July-August Launch
KBC has a tradition of airing its new seasons during the monsoon months of July or August. This scheduling has become a consistent pattern since the show first aired on July 3, 2000. The show, based on the popular American format “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”, quickly became a household name in India. Despite the passage of time, the excitement and anticipation for each new season remain undiminished, proving the enduring appeal of both the show and its host.
2. The Journey of KBC’s Sets: From Film City to Yash Raj Studios and Back
The journey of KBC’s sets has been as dynamic as the show itself. Initially, the show was shot in Film City, Goregaon, Mumbai, where it remained for the first five seasons. In 2012, the set moved to the prestigious Yash Raj Studios, adding a new dimension to the show’s production quality. Interestingly, a few episodes of KBC Season 8 were also shot in Gujarat. However, after this experiment, the makers decided to return to Film City, considering it a lucky charm for the show. The set at Film City continues to be the home of KBC, where the magic of the show unfolds.
3. KBC’s Celebrity Neighbours
The set of KBC is located in a bustling part of Mumbai’s entertainment industry, surrounded by other popular TV shows. Just a stone’s throw away is the set of “The Kapil Sharma Show,” another fan-favorite. Additionally, the set of “Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah,” a long-running sitcom, is only five minutes away. This proximity creates a unique atmosphere where the energy of different shows often overlaps, making the area a hub of creativity and entertainment.
4. Amitabh Bachchan’s Thoughtful Preparation
Amitabh Bachchan’s dedication to KBC goes beyond just hosting. Before each episode, he thoroughly reviews the profiles and backgrounds of the contestants who will sit on the hot seat. This preparation allows him to engage with the contestants more personally and make them feel at ease. Whether discussing their personal lives, their struggles, or their dreams, Bachchan’s approach helps create a comforting environment that encourages contestants to perform their best.
5. The Iconic Style of Amitabh Bachchan
Amitabh Bachchan’s style on KBC is as iconic as the show itself. His designer, Priya Patil, ensures that his wardrobe reflects his legendary status while prioritizing comfort. Over the years, Patil has introduced subtle yet impactful changes to Bachchan’s look, such as experimenting with ties, brooches, and suit designs. It’s rumored that each of his suits for KBC can cost between Rs 10 to 15 lakhs, emphasizing the attention to detail that goes into crafting his on-screen presence.
6. The Shahrukh Khan Interlude
While Amitabh Bachchan is synonymous with KBC, there was a brief period when another Bollywood superstar took the reins. During the third season of KBC, Bachchan had to step back due to health issues, and Shahrukh Khan was brought in as the host. Despite his charm and popularity, viewers found it difficult to connect with Khan in the same way they did with Bachchan. Consequently, the responsibility of hosting KBC was handed back to Amitabh Bachchan, and he has continued to anchor the show ever since.
7. A Special Selfie with Big B
One of the most cherished experiences for KBC contestants and audience members alike is the opportunity to interact with Amitabh Bachchan. During the shooting, contestants get a chance to meet and converse with the superstar, making their experience even more memorable. Bachchan is also known for engaging with the studio audience, often taking time after the shoot to click group selfies with them. These moments create lasting memories for fans and further cement Bachchan’s reputation as a gracious and humble celebrity.
KBC’s Legacy Continues
As KBC 16 unfolds, these lesser-known facts highlight the thoughtfulness, dedication, and attention to detail that have made the show a success for over two decades. Amitabh Bachchan’s involvement has not only kept the show alive but has also made it a beloved fixture in Indian television history. As the current season progresses, fans can look forward to more exciting episodes, inspiring stories, and of course, the signature charm of Amitabh Bachchan.
