Why I Will Pass on Kaun Banega Crorepati

When I was a kid, Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) was one of the most fascinating shows on Indian television. Its appealing combination of hope and knowledge drew me in. What also grabbed my attention was the fact that my mother would never scold me when the show was on, as knowledge is valued.

As an adult, I began to question my own interest in participating in KBC. I inquired about the show and soon learned about their Lucky Draw selection process, which deeply shocked me. However, these thoughts did not deter me from considering the show. One of my friends, who was studious, managed to get selected that same year, which gave me a better understanding of the process.

Dating back to 2015-16, I realized that KBC had deteriorated into something far from its original essence. The show started asking questions based on the participant's industry, too easily. Almost every second question was from Bollywood, which is not a representation of general knowledge but a mere guesswork based on actor recognition or film promotion. Additionally, the show started pre-recording these questions and answers, leading to a suspicion of authenticity.

It seems that KBC has become a platform for promoting films rather than a genuine test of knowledge. For instance, during a recent episode that featured a social worker, the show was more focused on promoting a new film rather than giving the participant a chance to explain their contributions to society. This shift in focus has made the show less appealing to viewers who pursue genuine knowledge.

What About the Prize Money?

It is pointless to debate whether one should participate in KBC purely for the prize money. Anyone can win 10,000 rupees easily with the help of lifelines, regardless of their knowledge. The show now starts with an entry fee of 1000 rupees, which is reasonable. However, the structure of the show, such as its focus on history and the representation of General Knowledge (GK) as an indicator of intelligence, is questionable.

The Role of GK as an Intellectual Parameter

While General Knowledge certainly plays a role in intellectual development, equating it with being smart is far too simplistic. Books are there to provide information, and GK should not be seen as the ultimate measure of one's intellectual capabilities. The emphasis on GK in KBC can sometimes overshadow genuine knowledge and critical thinking.

Amitabh Bachchan’s Runtime Role

Amitabh Bachchan, the host of KBC, often tries to act smart, which can be off-putting. It raises questions about the necessity of such a prominent role for a host and its impact on the show's credibility. Is his involvement just to make the show seem more intellectual, or is it genuinely to enhance its gravity? These questions are worth considering.

The Irritating Opponent and Sponsorship

The opponents on KBC often serve more as irritants than as a genuine threat. Their performance is predictable and lacks substance. Furthermore, the sponsorship deals can be seen as a distraction. The show's integrity is further compromised by the inclusion of corporate sponsors that may not align with the show's goals. These sponsorship deals often serve as a form of advertising rather than contributing to the core of the show.

The structure of the money ladder is also outdated. Instead of a steady increase of 1, 2, 3, and 5 crores, the jumps from one crore to the next are significant. The show should adopt a more logical progression that aligns with the participant's progress. Additionally, the final question should be worth more—perhaps equivalent to a million dollars in today's terms, which would be worth about 7 crores in rupees. This would provide a more exciting and justifiable reason for viewers to root for the participants.

In conclusion, while KBC once held a special place in my childhood, its current structure and focus make it less appealing to those who truly cherish genuine knowledge. The show should be more aligned with the principles of fair play and respect for intellectual rigor. If I ever get the chance, I will certainly pass on KBC.