Mumbai: The legendary Amitabh Bachchan is poised to return as the host of the immensely popular TV quiz show ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ (KBC) for its 16th season. The anticipation surrounding this return has been palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting his signature style and charismatic presence that have defined the show for over two decades.
On Thursday, the Bollywood icon gave fans a sneak peek into the upcoming season by sharing a black-and-white photograph from the sets of KBC 16 on the social media platform, X (formerly known as Twitter). Accompanying the nostalgic image was a succinct caption that read, “T 5082 – BACK to KBC 16th season ..”
— Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) July 25, 2024
Additionally, Bachchan shared a candid snapshot of himself running, emphasizing his unchanging routine. “T 5083 – yes back and still no change in routine – the run is on,” he captioned.
The photo and accompanying captions sparked an outburst of excitement among fans, who flooded the social media platform with messages of support. This enthusiasm reflects the deep emotional connection audiences have with both Bachchan and KBC, a show that has been part of India’s cultural fabric since its inception in 2000.
To build further excitement, Sony TV had previously released a promo video on social media, officially announcing the return of the beloved quiz show due to popular demand. The promo tugged at heartstrings, recounting Bachchan’s poignant speech as he wrapped up the last season. As the promo concluded, a voiceover assured viewers in Hindi: “Har aarambh ka ant taye hai magar apnon ke pyar mein jo anand hai.. to har ant ke baad shubharambh nishchit hai..,” translating to “Every beginning has an end, but in the love of our own, the joy is endless… so after every end, a new beginning is certain.
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Bachchan himself added, “Gunja jo aapke pyar ka shankhnaad, to aana padega fir” (The sound of your love echoes, I will have to come again), solidifying his commitment to the show and its fans.
Amitabh Bachchan started hosting KBC in the year 2000, and his association with the show has been nearly unbroken, with the exception of the third season in 2006, hosted by Shah Rukh Khan. Fans have repeatedly affirmed their preference for Bachchan’s hosting style, making every season he’s missed feel irreplaceable.
On the professional front, Bachchan appeared in the futuristic film ‘Kalki 2898 AD,’ released in June. Directed by Nag Ashwin, the film is a post-apocalyptic narrative inspired by Hindu scriptures and set in the year 2898 AD. Co-starring Deepika Padukone, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, and Disha Patani, the film has garnered widespread acclaim, with both fans and industry insiders lauding the performances and the film’s ambitious storytelling.
The ensemble cast also features cameos by Vijay Deverakonda, Dulquer Salmaan, and Mrunal Thakur, adding to the film’s star-studded draw. ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ stands as a mythology-inspired sci-fi extravaganza that pushes the boundaries of cinematic storytelling in the Indian film industry.
Adding to his packed schedule, Bachchan is currently shooting for ‘Vettaiyan,’ a highly anticipated film that also stars the iconic Rajinikanth. This project promises to be a major draw for fans of Indian cinema, given the legendary status of both leading men.
Bachchan is also involved in the film ‘Fakt Purusho Maate,’ which is a sequel to the critically acclaimed ‘Fakt Mahilao Maate.’ In this forthcoming film, Bachchan will take on the role of God, a character he has previously portrayed in ‘God Tussi Great Ho’ (2008). The narrative is a humorous exploration of generational divides and the tensions between tradition and modernity, promising both laughter and poignant insights.
Produced by Pandit and Vaishal Shah, ‘Fakt Purusho Maate’ is written and directed by Jay Bodas and Parth Trivedi. The cast includes Yash Soni, Mitra Gadhvi, Esha Kansara, and Darshan Jariwala. Scheduled for release on August 15, the film is already building buzz for its thoughtful commentary and engaging storytelling.
As anticipation builds for both KBC 16 and his upcoming film projects, Amitabh Bachchan continues to remain at the forefront of Indian entertainment, demonstrating his enduring appeal and versatility. Fans await with bated breath as the countdown to the new season of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ begins.
