The iconic quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) is back for its 17th season, and it has returned stronger than ever. Hosted by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, the show, which premiered on August 11, 2025, has secured a record 26 sponsors, underscoring its continued status as one of India’s most trusted and coveted television properties. With a promise of bigger rewards and a revamped format, the new season aims to deepen its connection with audiences and advertisers alike.
The show’s ability to attract such a diverse and long list of sponsors, despite a challenging economic environment, is a testament to its enduring brand trust. The sponsorship roster is headlined by Maruti Suzuki and the Aditya Birla Group as Co-Presenting Sponsors. The show has also secured high-profile partners like the State Bank of India as Banking Partner and, notably, the Reserve Bank of India as a Special Sponsor. The list of Co-Powered By sponsors includes UPI, Ultratech Cement, Asian Paints, and Gowardhan Ghee, among others.
This season, the rewards have been elevated to new heights. While the ultimate jackpot remains ₹7 crore, the game has become more lucrative for all contestants. The starting prize money has been increased, and the checkpoints on the money tree have been revised, with the second one now worth ₹5 lakh. Adding to the excitement, sponsors like Maruti Suzuki will give away a brand-new car to every crorepati on the show and to the winner of the highly popular second-screen engagement feature, KBC Play Along.
The show has also introduced key format changes to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. A new “Jaldi 5” round now precedes the hot seat, where the top two fastest-finger-first contestants compete head-to-head for a chance to play the game. In a significant change to the lifelines, a new “Sanket Suchak” (Hint-Giver) option has replaced the long-standing “Phone a Friend” lifeline. These innovations, combined with the show’s new tagline, “Jahaan Akal Hai Wahan Akad Hai,” celebrate the confidence of a knowledge-driven India.
Key Highlights:
- KBC Season 17, hosted by Amitabh Bachchan, premiered on August 11, 2025, with a record of 26 sponsors, including marquee names like Maruti Suzuki, Aditya Birla Group, and State Bank of India.
- The show offers bigger rewards, including a new car from a sponsor for every crorepati and the winner of the KBC Play Along contest.
- The format has been refreshed with the introduction of a new “Jaldi 5” round before the hot seat and a new “Sanket Suchak” (Hint-Giver) lifeline.
- The show continues to be a trusted platform for brands, demonstrating strong brand recall and a broad audience reach across various sectors.