Entertainment
The Indian Express

KBC 18: Ayushmann apologises to Big B for calling him ‘budhau’, says ‘84 wali harkat nahi hai’

Source Entity

The Indian Express

October 6, 2026
KBC 18: Ayushmann apologises to Big B for calling him ‘budhau’, says ‘84 wali harkat nahi hai’

Kaun Banega Crorepati 18 is hosting special celebrity episodes featuring stars like Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan, and Madhuri Dixit. These episodes have been marked by playful banter and lighthearted apologies between the veteran host Amitabh Bachchan and his guests.

Celebrity Dynamics on KBC 18: A Platform for Playful Exchange

The current season of Kaun Banega Crorepati 18 (KBC 18), hosted by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, has evolved into more than just a high-stakes quiz show; it has become a vibrant stage for celebrity camaraderie and lighthearted interaction. Recent episodes have highlighted a shift toward a more relaxed atmosphere, where the stature of the host is met with mutual respect and playful banter from the guests.

Ayushmann Khurrana’s Playful Gaffe

In a notable episode aired on October 5, actors Sara Ali Khan and Ayushmann Khurrana graced the hot seat to promote their upcoming film Udta Teer. The interaction took a humorous turn when Ayushmann referred to Bachchan as 'budhau,' a colloquial term implying an elderly person, before quickly offering an apology. His remark, '84 wali harkat nahi hai,' underscored the admiration the younger generation of actors holds for Bachchan’s enduring energy and professional vitality, even as they engage in friendly teasing.

Revisiting Professional Ties

Beyond the humor, the episode served as a bridge between past and present collaborations. Ayushmann and Bachchan revisited their professional history, specifically their shared experience in the 2019 film Gulabo Sitabo. Similarly, Sara Ali Khan expressed her aspirations to work alongside the veteran actor, highlighting how KBC 18 acts as a nexus for multi-generational talent within the Hindi film industry.

Madhuri Dixit and the Art of the Apology

The show’s theme of lighthearted humility continued with the appearance of Madhuri Dixit, who is slated to host the Marathi version of the franchise. In a promo released by Sony TV, Amitabh Bachchan was seen humorously apologizing to Dixit for previously mimicking her iconic dance step from the song 'Ek Do Teen' from the film Tezaab. This exchange highlights the mutual respect between two icons of Indian cinema, demonstrating how the show provides a space for stars to address past professional anecdotes with humor.

The Impact of Charity and Promotion

While the banter provides entertainment, the core of the show remains its philanthropic mission. The funds won by celebrity guests, including Sara and Ayushmann, are dedicated to specific charitable causes chosen by the stars themselves. This element of altruism anchors the celebrity appearances, ensuring that the spectacle of the game show serves a broader social purpose.

Future Trends in Celebrity Game Shows

Looking forward, the success of these celebrity-driven episodes suggests a trend where game shows are increasingly utilized as essential components of film marketing strategies. By blending the high-pressure environment of a quiz show with the relaxed, conversational tone of a talk show, KBC 18 maintains its relevance in a digital-first media landscape. This formula of blending nostalgia, celebrity interaction, and social responsibility ensures that the show remains a cornerstone of Indian prime-time television.

Multiple Citing Sources

Verification Required?

Read the full report from the primary source

Go to The Indian Express