Director Arun Sheshkumar reveals how he keeps the quiz show revealant ahead of Kaun Banega Crorepati 18

Amitabh Bachchan on the show. Pics/By Special Arrangement, Instagram

How does a game show run for 26 years in an age when the audience has limited attention span and TV offerings wrestle for eyeballs? For Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), which is entering its 18th season next week, the answer lies in its constant yet ever-changing nature. Amitabh Bachchan, over the years, has been the undisputed face of the show. And the changes keep coming almost every season, as it does this time too.

From the need for evolution came this season's theme - Sochna Padega. In a shift from its usual format, the questions in season 18 will be framed such that the contestants will have to rely on not only their knowledge, but also critical thinking and application of principles.

(L-R) The megastar with Arun Sheshkumar

Director Arun Sheshkumar told mid-day, "We wanted the game to reward not just knowledge, but presence of mind, decision-making, and strategy. We weren't adding twists simply because the audience expects novelty. Every addition had one purpose - to make the game more immersive and unpredictable."

The change extends to Fastest Finger First, the first step of KBC that takes you to the Hot Seat, as well. He explained, "The term ‘finger' has been dropped from the name. Now, instead of having four options [to be arranged sequentially], there will be four rounds that contestants play to reach the Hot Seat."

Amid these changes, one pillar stands strong - Bachchan. Recognising his immense contribution to KBC over 16 seasons, Sheshkumar said, "Mr Bachchan has become the show's emotional vocabulary. Contestants arrive prepared to answer questions, but within minutes they're talking about their dreams and sacrifices. His ability to make every contestant feel respected, heard, and comfortable is extraordinary."

[popcorn number="Rs 7CR" desc="The prize money of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati'" class="Default"]

[popcorn number="2000" desc="2000
The year the game show first aired on television" class="Default"]

Did you know?

Amitabh Bachchan has hosted every season of the game show except its third, in 2007, which saw Shah Rukh Khan take on the duty