Siddharth Basu on KBC and SRK

By: Upala KBR, Mid-Day
Friday, March 09, 2007
He's the man behind the questions in Kaun Banega Crorepati. But Siddharth Basu of Synergy Communications (which produces KBC) prefers to remain behind the scenes. We catch up with him for a short and snappy chat on SRK, the Big B and KBC.

Sanjay Dutt and Boman Irani shot for KBC last Tuesday. How did it go?

They both made an extraordinary effort to join us on the show. Boman came all the way from London, where he is currently shooting, just for the day.

He enjoys quizzes and his mother is a big KBC fan. They're quite a combo and real entertainers. Expect the unexpected.

When will the episode be aired?

Later this month.

Why Sanju and Boman?

Yes, in a sense it was a Munnabhai pairing. Circuit was on the line from London for a bit.

Which trust have they donated the money to?

Their charities were the CPAA and Don Bosco Shelter for Children, Wadala. You'll have to wait for the show to find out how much they donated.

What other interesting combinations are you looking at?

The plan was to have three specials this season, which are done. But there could be one more.

Have the TRPs of KBC has gone up in the last couple of weeks?

KBC's been the top show since it began. Sometimes the numbers may be more, sometimes less, but it's been right up there in the ratings.

Are you happy with the kind of response Shah Rukh has been getting?

I'm delighted. The response is as good as it can get. His youthful charm, his massive star appeal, his spontaneity and energy, his sense of humour, his intelligence all add value to the show. He scores with everybody, but most of all with young people and women.

People say KBC's format has become boring. Are you looking at a change?

The format is the magic of the show and it would be foolish to tinker with fundamentals. Yet, there's a fair bit of innovation going on all the time within the Indian version of the format.

What is the best compliment you've received for KBC after SRK joined?

'This boy has made it a joy!'

Were you disappointed when Amitabh Bachchan was unable to be a part of the new season?

Of course. It was wrenching. He was synonymous with the show.