The January 20 episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) brought a nostalgic surprise for its dedicated fans as Harshvardhan Nawathe, the first-ever Crorepati in the show’s history, made a long-awaited return. His reappearance not only filled the fans with excitement but also marked the start of the Gyan Ka Rajat Mahotsav, a celebration in honor of the 25th anniversary of the iconic quiz show. This special occasion shines a light on the transformative power of KBC, which has shaped countless lives over the years.
In a heartfelt video shared by the show’s makers, Harshvardhan opened up about his feelings of coming back after such a long time. Reflecting on the significance of the moment, he expressed how it felt like a “homecoming.” He mentioned that 25 years is a long stretch of time, and returning to the KBC stage after so many years filled him with immense joy. The show, he acknowledged, gave him much more than just financial rewards. He said that besides the prize money, he received widespread recognition, admiration, and, most importantly, the love of the people. He said, “The audience felt like my extended family; they were as happy as I was. I still remember people coming up to me—I even gave my first autograph that day. At the time, I didn’t know how to give an autograph, so I signed it the way I did at the bank. Later, a friend advised me to create a unique signature. That’s when I truly realized something extraordinary had happened.”
For Harshvardhan, the love he continues to receive is something truly special. Even after all these years, when people recognize him, they still talk about his unforgettable victory on KBC. This enduring connection with his audience shows the lasting impact the show has had on viewers. In his message to the younger generation, Harshvardhan emphasized the importance of cultivating a reading habit, encouraging the youth to grow through knowledge.
To commemorate his return, the makers played a memorable video showcasing the moment when Harshvardhan made history as the first Crorepati on KBC. Amitabh Bachchan, the iconic host of the show, welcomed Harshvardhan with great warmth and asked him how it felt to sit in the hot seat once again. A visibly emotional Harshvardhan remarked that the thrill and excitement he felt during his first appearance on the show seemed just as intense this time. Everything felt the same; the anticipation, the nerves, and the eagerness to answer the questions. He said, “Sir, this is an entirely new hot seat—it feels different. And for this grand celebration of knowledge, we have a silver jubilee and a silver hot seat. After so many years, being back here feels surreal. Even the set looks different now. Back then, the lighting was different too.” He added, “It’s like I’m back in time, waiting to hear you say, ‘Harshvardhan, the next question is on your computer screen.’ I’m truly reliving that magical day.”
He recalled how Big B asked his personal make-up artist to d his touch up after he won the show. He disclosed that Amitabh Bachchsn had invited him in a family function also. He recounted one advice given b Mr. Bachchan. He said, “you gave me advice that I didn’t fully understand at the time but has stayed with me ever since. You said, ‘Harsh, you don’t know what you’ve done, and you must live your life responsibly from now on.’ Back then, I thought I’d just won a quiz show—nothing more. But the very next day, when the media frenzy began, I started to understand the weight of your words. Today, after all these years, I truly understand how valuable that advice was.”
With its powerful 25-year journey, KBC continues to be a source of inspiration for millions, not only for the wealth it offers but for the doors it opens in terms of recognition and self-belief. Harshvardhan Nawathe’s return to the show on this special occasion not only serves as a reminder of the show’s transformative power but also reinforces the idea that KBC is much more than a quiz show, it’s a journey of dreams, aspirations, and success. As the show embarks on the next chapter, the silver jubilee celebration is a tribute to its monumental impact on the lives of contestants and viewers alike.