KBC turns 25: Amitabh Bachchan-show was a media quake, says creator Siddhartha Basu

India Today

11 hours ago

'9 baj gaye kya?' - Remember how this expression became a national slogan when 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' launched on July 3, 2000? The game show didn't just change the face of Indian television; it also breathed new life into superstar Amitabh Bachchan's career.Today, 25 years on, the show and its iconic host remain a part of countless households, where knowledge continues to be celebrated on the hot seat. As 'KBC' marks its silver jubilee, the show's original creator, Siddhartha Basu, spoke exclusively to India Today, reflecting on the journey and sharing his fondest memory.advertisementTHE ENDURING MAGIC OF 'KBC'Speaking about the show completing 25 years, Basu said, 'That first season in 2000 was a media quake. It stopped the nation at 9 pm, brought families together, and proved that a knowledge show could be compelling prime-time entertainment. It changed the face of Indian TV, ushering in international formats, world-class production values, and megastar hosts. What I am proudest of is the punch we packed, the integrity of the game and the richness of its content.'After its first three seasons aired on Star Plus, 'KBC' moved to Sony TV in 2010. While Basu helmed the production for 10 seasons under his banner, Big Synergy, the baton was later passed on to Tree of Knowledge - another of his companies - along with Sony Pictures' StudioNXT. Though he stepped back from actively running the show, Basu continues to serve as a mentor to the team.We also spoke about the enduring magic of 'Kaun Banega Crorepati', and how it has managed to stay relevant through changing times. Sharing what he believes has worked for the Big B-hosted show, Siddhartha Basu said, 'The show's strength has always been its core blend, a gripping game format, rich question-and-answer content, real human stories, a charismatic host, aspirational rewards, and top-notch production. Every season brought thoughtful tweaks without ever losing that essence.'25 YEARS AND COUNTINGadvertisement
Over the last 25 years, countless contestants have seen their dreams come true. For viewers at home, it's been those candid anecdotes by senior Bachchan, the relatable stories, or that one moment where you knew the right answer: all of which continue to add to the charm of watching the show.And what's the one moment that Basu holds closest to his heart? 'The first Rs one crore win (Harshvardhan Nawathe on October 19, 2000). When Amitabh Bachchan declared, 'You have created history!' It wasn't just about the contestant; the show had also created history.'The producer-quizmaster also shared a vivid and cherished memory that has stayed with him. He shared, 'A former BSF officer returned years later to say he had used his winnings and new-found reputation to build a world-class school in rural Madhya Pradesh. That video said it all, how deeply the show touched lives.'While 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' remains a marquee name on Indian television, content consumption has evolved drastically. Would the show have the same impact if it were to launch today?'It would need another big leap of faith, like the one Sameer Nair and the team at Star took in 2000, or when Sony brought it back in 2010. That kind of conviction is rare, but not impossible,' Siddhartha Basu signed off.As for the new season, Amitabh Bachchan is said to soon begin shooting for 'Kaun Banega Crorepati 18', which will launch sometime in August.- EndsMust Watch
IN THIS STORY#Amitabh Bachchan