What Is Kaun Banega Crorepati?
Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) is India's longest-running and most beloved television quiz show, broadcast on Sony Entertainment Television. Based on the British format Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, KBC was first aired in 2000 with Amitabh Bachchan as host. The show tests contestants' general knowledge across multiple rounds, with prize money increasing with every correct answer.
A Brief History of KBC
- 2000 – Season 1: KBC debuted with Amitabh Bachchan and quickly became a cultural phenomenon in India.
- 2005 – Season 2: Shah Rukh Khan guest-hosted this season, bringing a different energy to the show.
- 2010 – Season 4 onwards: Amitabh Bachchan returned as the permanent host, and the show has aired on Sony TV since.
- 2024 – Season 16: The show continues to attract millions of viewers and aspirants across India.
How Does the KBC Format Work?
KBC follows a structured question-and-answer format where contestants answer a series of multiple-choice questions, each with four options. The prize money doubles as contestants advance through levels. Here's a simplified look at the prize ladder:
| Question Number | Prize Amount (₹) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 1,000 |
| 5 | 10,000 |
| 10 | 3,20,000 |
| 13 | 25,00,000 |
| 15 | 7,00,00,000 |
Lifelines Available to Contestants
Contestants are given lifelines to help them when they're unsure of an answer:
- 50:50 – Two incorrect options are removed, leaving the correct answer and one wrong one.
- Ask the Expert – A subject expert advises the contestant on the correct answer.
- Audience Poll – The studio audience votes on which answer they think is correct.
- Flip the Question – The contestant can replace the current question with a new one (used in recent seasons).
- Double Dip – The contestant can attempt two answers for one question.
How Are Contestants Selected for KBC?
Selection for KBC is a fair and transparent process:
- Sony TV announces registrations for each new season through its official channels — the SonyLIV app and official Sony website.
- Aspirants answer a set of qualifying questions (usually via SMS or the app) during the registration window.
- Shortlisted candidates are called for further rounds including audio/video auditions and in-person interactions.
- Final contestants are selected based on their quiz performance and communication skills.
Important: KBC registration is always free of charge. Anyone asking you to pay for registration or claiming you've been "selected" without having registered is running a scam.
What Happens When Someone Wins?
When a contestant wins prize money on KBC, the process is handled directly by Sony Entertainment Television. Prize disbursement involves identity verification, tax deductions as per Indian law (TDS applies to winnings above ₹10,000), and a formal handover. Winners are never contacted through random phone calls or WhatsApp messages.
Why KBC Matters Culturally
Beyond the prize money, KBC has inspired millions of Indians to pursue knowledge, education, and self-improvement. The show has featured contestants from all walks of life — farmers, teachers, homemakers, and students — proving that knowledge is truly the great equaliser in Indian society.