The latest episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 16 brought a grand celebration to the stage, marking melodious end 2024. Host Amitabh Bachchan set the tone by reflecting on the year’s accomplishments. Adding to the charm were legendary artists Gurdas Maan and Shankar Mahadevan, who graced the episode with their presence.
Gurdas Maan made a captivating entrance, performing a soulful song that left the audience spellbound. Amitabh Bachchan, deeply moved by the performance, watched in awe. As a gesture of respect, Gurdas Maan touched the legs of Amitabh Bachchan’s chair and later bowed to touch his feet. This heartfelt moment highlighted his reverence for the iconic actor.
Shankar Mahadevan joined Gurdas Maan on stage, performing a spirited version of “Jhoom Barabar Jhoom.” Their collaboration electrified the atmosphere. Mahadev shared a lighthearted comment about feeling like he was back in a physics exam while sitting on the hot seat. He praised the show for uniting audiences of all ages, a sentiment echoed by Bachchan’s warm acknowledgment of the milestone 25 years of the show.
The camaraderie between the two legends and Amitabh Bachchan brought out touching anecdotes. Gurdas Maan expressed admiration for Bachchan’s humility by using his dialogue, “Rishte me to aap hamare baap lagte hai.” In response, Bachchan recalled their first meeting at an airport, where Gurdas Maan had greeted him with overwhelming reverence. He said, “Big B says, “Humari joh pehli mulaqat hui thi woh ek airport par hui thi aur aate he, inhone mujhe shashtang namaskar kiya, main itna nervous hogaya. Maine ne kaha Maan ji aisa mat kijiye main iss layak nahi hoon. Main toh shashtang pranaam aap dono ke saamne karta hoon. Kyunki joh gyaan aur kala aapke andar hai woh aam nahi hai. It’s an example of perfectness.”
The artists’ visit had a noble purpose. Both were participating to raise funds for their respective NGOs. During the episode, Shankar Mahadevan shared details about his music institute, which Bachchan enthusiastically described as anything but small. Big B disclosed that he got rejected from that institute. In response Shankar Mahadevan jokingly reiterated on of Big B’s famous dialogue, “Don ko pakarna muskil hi nehi namumkin hai.” Shankar revealed how he had once donned an opportunity to work in the US, choosing instead to pursue his passion for music, thanks to his wife’s encouragement.
Gurdas Maan shared his journey into music, beginning with his school days where he used to present his talent every saturday. He gained recognition through college youth festivals, where he wrote his first song, “Dilda Maamla,” for a play. A producer discovered him during one such event, leading to his television debut on December 31, 1978. Amitabh Bachchan highlighted the remarkable coincidence of this episode airing on December 31, 2024, marking 44 years of Maan’s illustrious career. On Shankar’s request, Maan performed the song, earning enthusiastic applause and a “once more” from the audience.
Shankar Mahadevan’s own journey added layers of inspiration. Bachchan shared that Shankar had sung over 7,000 songs in various languages. Shankar disclosed his background as an engineer and how his wife motivated him to leave his job to follow his true calling. He also recounted the story behind his iconic song “Breathless,” written by Javed Akhtar. At Bachchan’s request, Shankar performed the song, captivating everyone with his remarkable talent.
The episode also highlighted lighter moments. As Big B shared his desire of not to play the game further, Shankar humorously suggested that Bachchan skip directly to the Rs.7 crore question, mimicking Abhishek Bachchan’s playful style. Amitabh shared how his son’s dramatic delivery during his guest appearance had left a lasting impression and become a popular catchphrase.
An audience member requested Shankar Mahadevan to perform “Kajra Re” and asked about its creation. Shankar revealed that Amitabh Bachchan had a pivotal role in shaping the song. Initially recorded as a rough version in Shankar’s voice, Bachchan insisted it remain unchanged, declaring that no one else could do justice to it. Shankar expressed gratitude saying, “it was the greatest gift I could have received for this song.”
The show wrapped up with Amitabh Bachchan celebrating the enduring magic of “Kajra Re,” stating that only Shankar Mahadevan could sing it. This heartwarming episode beautifully combined music, nostalgia, and inspiration, leaving viewers with unforgettable moments.