Industry veterans recall that when Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) was first conceptualized in 2000, then-Star Plus programming head Sameer Nair faced severe skepticism from peers who labeled the prime-time quiz format “the worst idea in the history of bad ideas.”Nair’s radical decision to transition a silver-screen legend to television was heavily criticized by industry insiders. Doubters frequently questioned the creative direction, asking, “Who puts a quiz show on prime time? Where have you brought Amitabh Bachchan from? Indians don’t even like this!” Beyond the format skepticism, critics pointed out that the show was exponentially risky running at at least ten times more expensive than any other reality programme on Indian television at the time.
Furthermore, the original British format, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, had never featured a cinema star as its host, making the selection of Amitabh Bachchan unprecedented. To secure the megastar’s participation, Nair even flew Bachchan to London to watch a live recording of the original show.Ultimately, Nair’s gamble triggered a cultural reset:
Bachchan personalized the rigid British format, introducing bilingual hosting and his signature phrase “Computer ji”.
Sameer Nair strategically banked on Amitabh Bachchan’s unmatched popularity with family matriarchs who controlled the household television remote.
Upon release, the show famously emptied Mumbai streets at 9:00 PM, revitalizing Bachchan’s career and creating an enduring legacy now celebrating its 18th season.
News Edit KV Raman
