Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), the iconic game show that launched on July 3, 2000, has become a staple of Indian television over the last 25 years. Revolutionizing the Indian TV landscape, the show not only changed the way audiences consumed content but also revived Amitabh Bachchan’s career, making him a household name once again. As KBC marks its silver jubilee, creator Siddhartha Basu reflected on the journey of this historic show and the profound impact it has had on Indian television.
Basu fondly recalled how the first season of KBC was nothing short of a “media quake,” stopping the nation at 9 pm each night. The show broke boundaries by proving that a knowledge-based program could be compelling and engaging prime-time entertainment. “It stopped the nation at 9 pm, brought families together, and proved that a knowledge show could be compelling prime-time entertainment,” Basu said, adding that KBC changed the face of Indian television by introducing international formats, world-class production values, and celebrity hosts.
The success of the show was built on a core blend of gripping gameplay, relatable human stories, a charismatic host, and aspirational rewards, which resonated with audiences across the country. Each season brought thoughtful tweaks, but the essence of the show always remained the same. One of the most memorable moments in KBC history was the first-ever Rs 1 crore win by Harshvardhan Nawathe on October 19, 2000. Amitabh Bachchan’s iconic line, “You have created history,” signaled the moment when both the contestant and the show became part of history.
Another moment that stays with Basu is the story of a former BSF officer who used his winnings from KBC to build a world-class school in rural Madhya Pradesh. “That video said it all,” Basu shared, emphasizing how the show deeply touched and changed lives.
As Kaun Banega Crorepati celebrates 25 years, the future of the show remains bright. While content consumption has drastically evolved, Basu believes that with the right leap of faith, KBC could continue to thrive in today’s media landscape. “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,” he said, hinting that such conviction is rare but not impossible.
Amitabh Bachchan is expected to begin shooting for Kaun Banega Crorepati 18, with the new season slated to launch in August 2025. As the show continues to be a defining part of Indian television, the legacy of KBC remains a testament to the power of knowledge, entertainment, and its ability to inspire millions of people across the nation.
