When Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) was being planned in India, the Amitabh Bachchan-hosted quiz show was far from being considered a safe bet. In fact, the idea was reportedly viewed by many as one of the biggest gambles in Indian television. Sameer Nair, who was heading programming at Star Plus when the show was being developed, has now recalled the scepticism surrounding its launch.

Amitabh Bachchan was chosen for KBC for this reason

Speaking about the making of KBC to The Hollywood Reporter, Nair revealed that the show was “ten times more expensive” than other television programmes of that era. The decision to bring a major Bollywood star on board for a quiz show was particularly questioned, since the original British format, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?, did not feature a film celebrity as its host.