Kaun Banega Crorepati 16: The Mahabharata Question That Cost Utkarsh Baxi Rs 25 Lakh

Kaun Banega Crorepati, popularly known as KBC, has been a staple of Indian television since its inception. Hosted by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, the show has captured the hearts and minds of millions across the country. Season 16 of KBC began with much fanfare on August 12, and the first contestant to grace the hot seat was Utkarsh Baxi, an HR professional from Bengaluru. Utkarsh’s journey on the show was nothing short of dramatic, culminating in a moment that would leave viewers both shocked and empathetic.

Utkarsh Baxi played the game with remarkable poise and intelligence, successfully answering a series of challenging questions. However, his journey took a turn when he faced a question worth Rs 25 lakh. The question, rooted in the epic Mahabharata, asked which god gifted a garland to Amba, declaring that whoever wore it would be able to kill Bhishma. The options provided were Lord Shiva, Lord Kartikeya, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Vayu. Unsure of the answer, Utkarsh decided to use the ‘video call a friend’ lifeline.

During the video call, Utkarsh’s friend suggested that the correct answer was Lord Shiva. Despite this advice, Utkarsh remained uncertain and opted to use another lifeline called ‘double dip.’ This lifeline allowed him two chances to answer the question but prohibited him from quitting the game. Utkarsh’s first choice was Lord Shiva, which turned out to be incorrect. With one more chance left, he chose Lord Vayu, but this too was wrong. As a result, Utkarsh lost the opportunity to win Rs 25 lakh and had to settle for Rs 3.20 lakh.

Amitabh Bachchan, ever the gracious host, took the time to explain the correct answer. In the Mahabharata, it was Lord Kartikeya who appeared before Amba in his six-faced avatar and gifted her the garland. The garland came with a prophecy that whoever wore it would be able to kill Bhishma. However, nobody was willing to take up the task, leading Amba to throw the garland on a pole. When she was reborn as Shikhandi, she wore the garland and ultimately played a crucial role in Bhishma’s demise.

The emotional weight of the moment was palpable as Utkarsh realized the gravity of his mistake. Losing Rs 25 lakh was a significant blow, but what stung even more was missing out on the chance to win Rs 12.5 lakh by quitting the game earlier. Utkarsh’s journey on KBC ended with him taking home Rs 3.20 lakh, a respectable amount but far from the potential winnings he had within his grasp. The episode served as a stark reminder of the high stakes involved in the game and the thin line between success and failure.

The latest season of Kaun Banega Crorepati introduced several new features to keep the audience engaged. One such feature was the ‘super sawal,’ which allowed contestants to answer a question without any given options for double the prize money. This feature could only be used between the 6th and 10th questions, adding an extra layer of strategy to the game. Utkarsh, however, did not get the opportunity to utilize this feature, as his journey was cut short by the Mahabharata question.

Despite the setback, Utkarsh’s appearance on KBC was not without its highlights. During the show, he mentioned a viral clip involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This clip became a key moment in the episode, adding a touch of contemporary relevance to the proceedings. Utkarsh also shared insights into his profession as an HRBP in an IT company in Bengaluru, emphasizing the importance of listening to employees’ concerns and fostering a positive work environment.

Utkarsh’s performance on KBC resonated with many viewers, who admired his composure and determination. His story is a testament to the unpredictable nature of the game and the immense pressure faced by contestants. Over the years, Kaun Banega Crorepati has not only been a platform for winning cash prizes but also a source of knowledge and inspiration. The show has helped countless individuals achieve their dreams and has become an integral part of Indian pop culture.

Amitabh Bachchan’s role as the host cannot be overstated. His charisma, wisdom, and empathy have made him the perfect anchor for the show. His interactions with contestants, including Utkarsh, are always filled with warmth and encouragement. Bachchan’s presence elevates the show, making each episode a memorable experience for both contestants and viewers alike. His opening speeches, filled with gratitude and appreciation for the audience, set the tone for the episodes and create a sense of connection with the viewers.

Kaun Banega Crorepati continues to evolve with each season, introducing new twists and features to keep the format fresh and exciting. The addition of the ‘dugnaastra’ option, which allows contestants to double their winnings, and the ‘super sawal’ feature are examples of how the show constantly innovates. These elements add layers of strategy and excitement, ensuring that each episode is a thrilling experience for both contestants and viewers.

The impact of Kaun Banega Crorepati extends beyond the confines of the television screen. The stories of the contestants, their struggles, and their triumphs resonate with people across the country. Many contestants have shared how their winnings have helped them achieve their dreams, whether it’s funding education, starting a business, or supporting their families. The show has become a beacon of hope and a symbol of possibility for many aspiring individuals.

As Utkarsh Baxi’s journey on KBC came to an end, it left viewers reflecting on the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of knowledge and preparation. His experience serves as a reminder that while luck plays a role, it’s one’s knowledge, strategy, and composure that ultimately determine success. Kaun Banega Crorepati, with its blend of entertainment, education, and inspiration, continues to be a beloved show that captures the essence of human endeavor and aspiration.

In conclusion, the 16th season of Kaun Banega Crorepati has already proven to be as captivating and emotionally charged as its predecessors. Utkarsh Baxi’s story, marked by his near-miss at winning Rs 25 lakh due to a challenging Mahabharata question, will be remembered as one of the standout moments of the season. The show, under the impeccable hosting of Amitabh Bachchan, remains a cultural phenomenon, offering not just a quiz competition but a platform for dreams, knowledge, and inspiration. As the season progresses, viewers can look forward to more such compelling stories and moments that make Kaun Banega Crorepati a timeless classic in Indian television.