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KBC's Risky Start: Big B's Show Once Called Worst Idea
28 Aug
Summary
- KBC was initially considered a risky venture with doubts about its prime-time success.
- Amitabh Bachchan's star power and Indian cultural integration were key to the show's appeal.
- The show's high production cost was a significant concern for its initial viability.
In 2000, the concept of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) was met with significant skepticism, with former Star Plus programming head Sameer Nair even labeling it a potentially disastrous television idea. The show's considerable expense and Amitabh Bachchan's challenging career phase at the time added to the perceived risks.
However, Bachchan's hosting transformed KBC into a distinctly Indian program. His fluent use of both Hindi and English, coupled with his ability to weave questions around Indian history and culture, resonated deeply with viewers. Nair highlighted Bachchan's appeal to mothers, the primary remote controllers in Indian households.
To solidify Bachchan's commitment, Nair took him to witness a live taping of 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' in London. This experience, along with understanding the production's scale, convinced Bachchan to host the Indian adaptation. KBC was produced with a budget ten times that of other Indian shows, mirroring its international counterparts.
Despite adhering to the original format, KBC incorporated unique Indian elements, such as Bachchan's opening speeches and the affectionate 'Computer ji.' Upon its 2000 launch, the show became an immediate phenomenon, drawing massive audiences that emptied Mumbai streets during its broadcast, signifying its profound impact on Indian television.
