Legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, fondly known as Big B, has once again proven why he remains a towering figure in Indian entertainment. With the announcement of ₹5 crore per episode for hosting the upcoming 17th season of *Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), Bachchan has officially surpassed Salman Khan to become India’s highest-paid TV host.
The new season of KBC, set to premiere on August 11, 2025, will air five nights a week on Sony TV, putting Big B’s weekly earnings at a staggering ₹25 crore. In comparison, Salman Khan reportedly earns ₹12 crore per episode for hosting Bigg Boss, which typically airs once or twice a week.
What makes Bachchan’s deal stand out is not just the per-episode fee but also the frequency of appearances. Over a month, this adds up to nearly ₹100 crore—making him not only a host but a TV phenomenon.
Fans and industry insiders alike have lauded the news, praising the 82-year-old superstar’s enduring charisma, professionalism, and unmatched ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Media analysts believe this deal is also symbolic—signifying a shift back toward content-driven television and reaffirming the legacy of a show that has inspired millions across the nation.
Meanwhile, Salman Khan remains India’s highest-paid TV star overall, especially with his lucrative Bigg Boss contracts, but in terms of sheer per-week television earnings, Amitabh Bachchan now holds the throne.