Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Aug 6: Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan has revealed that he recently worked a 24-hour shift while filming the upcoming 18th season of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), saying the demanding schedule was necessary to ensure the show's timely launch.
The 83-year-old actor, who has hosted the popular quiz show since its debut in 2000, shared details of the marathon shoot in a blog post on Wednesday.
"Finished work at 7 am this morning, of work that began at 7 am yesterday. But the importance of its presentation and its timely work was necessary, so did it," Bachchan wrote.
He said the hectic schedule was driven by the announcement of the premiere date for the new season, leaving no scope for delays.
"The first broadcast date for KBC is announced, and missing that would mean a job replacement for me. So off to do what needs to be done," he wrote in a light-hearted remark.
Bachchan added that he was glad to return to his daily blogging routine after completing the extended shoot.
"I shall retire now, get some food in the belly, hit a pillow for a while, for tomorrow the 6th August is another early call," he wrote.
Amitabh Bachchan has hosted every season of Kaun Banega Crorepati since the programme first aired on July 3, 2000, except for the third season, which was hosted by Shah Rukh Khan.
Adapted from the British television format Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, the show is widely regarded as a turning point in Bachchan's career, helping him recover from financial setbacks and revive his standing in the film industry.
Over the past 25 years, Kaun Banega Crorepati has emerged as one of India's most successful television programmes, with Bachchan's iconic catchphrase "Lock kiya jaye" becoming a part of popular culture.
Season 18 of Kaun Banega Crorepati will premiere on August 10 at 9 pm on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV. The show will air from Monday to Friday.
The new season carries the theme "Sochna Padega", highlighting the importance of critical thinking in an era where information is readily available through smartphones. The concept emphasises analysing and applying knowledge rather than simply knowing the correct answer.