Dost not Host
It's superb! Shah Rukh Khan brings his inimitable Bollywood touch to KBC3, says Anil Thakraney
For a man who's all set to earn crores of rupees asking tricky questions, it's funny that SRK doesn't like being subjected to a few himself, especially when grilled on touchy issues like, "How does it feel to fill in Bachchan's rather large shoes?" His answer to this crore-rupee question, when reluctantly given, is always dodgy and boringly correct.
The truth, however, is that the only big change in KBC 3 is the host, all else remains pretty much constant, the psychedelic set notwithstanding. Which means, whether King Khan appreciates it or not, any review of the show will revolve around the theme of 'Big B versus SRK'.
So let me be politically incorrect out here, and say it like it is, going by the first episode screened last night: SRK rules, he is a far better host than his predecessor. The new Don has brought in oodles of freshness into KBC, he's funny, he's cool, he's chilled out, he's smooth, he's loaded with raw energy. And all these in-born qualities Shah Rukh effortlessly rubs off on to the contestants. Bachchan, in comparison, was like a 'good, reliable uncle', but lacked the electricity and spontaneity that SRK brings to the hot seat. This approach also helps put the contestants at ease, something Bachchan could not always achieve due to his serious and grand fatherly demeanour.
Particularly like the cute little touches: the high-fives, the hugs, the 'freeze kiya jaaye', the 'palat do' the groovy hip-hop song, etc. What needs to be seen is if King Khan can sustain the energy levels day on day, that will be his true test.
Also, did not miss his subtle dig at Bachchan, when Khan made fun of 'shudhh Hindi bhasha'. It's the SRK way to make a point, and don't we adore him for it. Bottomline: Shah Rukh has turned what essentially is a quiz show into a one-hour, full-on, full family entertainment fare, with all the right masalas thrown in for good measure. Exactly what he does so wonderfully in his KJ films. Rock on Shah Rukh, it's time KBC ke pahle host ko 'freeze kiya jaaye'.
thought this article ws reeeli sweet n a reeeli gd review on SRK n KBC3's frst week - hav highlighted bits i found awesome!!! - sori if its been posted before 😊
