Kaun Banega Crorepati 16: Amitabh Bachchan warmly hails Shankar Mahadevan, says ‘Kajra Re is a song that can only be sung by Shankar and no one else’

This Tuesday on New Year’s Eve, Kaun Banega Crorepati 16, hosted by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, will showcase a special episode with two music legends—Shankar Mahadevan and Gurdas Maan. Gurudas Maan's performances of Punjabi folk songs will inspire host Amitabh Bachchan to join in with his humorous and endearing renditions, bringing an extra spark to the festivities. Adding to the charm, their light-hearted anecdotes and funny moments promise to make the evening an unforgettable mix of laughter, inspiration, and pure entertainment.

Among the many standout moments of the show is that of an audience member asking Shankar Mahadevan, "You have a song 'Kajra Re' that has become a party anthem, loved by everyone. I would love for you to sing it for us. Also, what was going through your mind when you were writing this song?"

Shankar Mahadevan replies, "The success of this song is a result of a collective effort. We, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, had a small part to play, but the biggest contribution comes from the person sitting right in front of me" (points at Amitabh Bachchan). He continues, "Let me share a little story. When we were recording this song in the studio, the beginning tune, the jugalbandi in the lyrics, was entirely Amitabh sir’s idea. I had recorded the rough version of the song in my voice and went to Sir to let him know. I told him that this was just a rough recording in my voice and that a singer would come later to re-record it. Sir asked me, 'Which singer is coming?' I said, 'Whoever it is, they will sing it.' But Sir said, 'Khabardaar, no one else can touch this. It will go with your voice.' That moment, when Sir blessed me with this song, it was the greatest gift I could have received for this song."

Amitabh Bachchan highlights the magic of the iconic Kajra Re song, sharing his admiration for Shankar Mahadevan’s rendition. With warmth and reverence, Amitabh states, “Kajra Re is a song that can only be sung by Shankar and no one else.”
Don't miss the chance to see this special musical moment unfold. Tune in this Friday at 9 PM.