November 11, 2020 10:30:31 pm
Nazia Nasim is KBC 12’s first ‘crorepati’. (Photo: PR Brochure)
On Wednesday, Kaun Banega Crorepati 12 got his first crorepati at Nazia Nasim. The Delhi resident, who works as a communication manager with Royal Enfield, correctly answered 15 questions and took home Rs 1 crore from the program presented by Amitabh Bachchan.
In an exclusive conversation with indianexpress.com, Nazia Nasim spoke about her big win, her family’s reaction, and meeting Big B. She also revealed how she plans to use the prize money.
Excerpts from the conversation:
Has the great victory finally been assimilated?
It still seems very unreal to me. I am overwhelmed with the reception of my family and friends. There are some friends and family who were not in contact and went out of their way to call me and congratulate me. I think it’s not just about winning the show, but also rekindling old relationships. Even when a stranger wins on the show, we feel happy and proud. And so, I feel privileged and overwhelmed with all the love that comes.
Did the fact that you are also the first crorepati of the season make the victory any sweeter?
Yes. However, I would have been just as happy if any other woman had. I am a great advocate for women’s rights and I am happy when women thrive. I hope I can give the girls from the smaller towns confidence after this. Not many get that exposure and the right to make a decision. I am grateful to have parents who gave me wings to fly. I just hope the same works for all girls.
While you were on the bench, did you expect to win? Describe that moment for us.
Not at all, it was completely surreal. I never knew it would get this far. I think there was some kind of divine energy and I could feel that from the beginning. Honestly, it was a pretty uneventful race for me. And after crossing a particular threshold, I could see my dream come true. I was on the edge of my seat, as were my mother and husband, who were present on set. When Mr. Bachchan, with his inimitable style, announced ‘ek crore’, I was very excited. He was literally crying then. It was nice of him to stand up and applaud me.
Nazia Nasim left host Amitabh Bachchan impressed with her performance on KBC 12. (Photo: PR Handout)
Amitabh Bachchan also seemed to be quite impressed with your game. Tell us more about your experience meeting him.
I don’t think there is a single person in the country who is not in love with his aura. However, when he entered the set, he became one of us. No tantrums or starry air, and he spoke very kindly to everyone. Amitabh ji and the whole team really want you to win, and they would push and keep motivating everyone. He was also making jokes. The fact that makes it so great is its modesty. It was inspiring interacting with him. Plus, he kept telling me that he was proud of me. Now, I have never dreamed that someone as great as him would say that. I think it was more than any million rupees. Something that can never be valued.
How did KBC 12 happen?
It’s been 20 years, and since it first aired, I was hooked on the show. KBC is also a very ambitious show, especially for the middle class and small town people. It’s the first show that really gives you the opportunity to speak with a celebrity who is larger than life and who looks like a god. The show is definitely more than just the money. For the last 8-10 seasons, I have tried to get through. My mother really motivated me to participate and luckily here I am.
Could you share more about your preparation to participate in the program?
Kaun Banega Crorepati is a show that gives everyone a chance. There is no set benchmark or talent required to earn it. It tests your knowledge that you have accumulated over the years. The questions are not usually black and white or what you will find in textbooks. It works on your analytical capabilities and how well you can read it. I was arguing with someone who was like a Slumdog Millionaire moment for me. There were certain questions that I thought I had taught my son about. So the ropes kept coming in and came together to make me win. The show is not something you can prepare for in a month or two. It really tests your accumulated knowledge, confidence and willingness to go far in the game.
Read also | Kaun Banega Crorepati Winners: Where Are They Now?
How is the celebration going at home?
So I have a huge family in Ranchi and they are completely freaking out. Everyone is scared and plans to celebrate and watch the episode together. However, given the pandemic, I don’t know how much we will be able to do. But it’s overwhelming to see so much love flowing. It is a once in a lifetime experience for all of us.
It may be too early to ask, but how do you plan to use the prize money?
Honestly, I haven’t really thought about it. I have two sets of parents and I will spend a certain amount to ensure their health is safe. I also have a 10 year old son who is a soccer fan. So part of that would go into his training and future. We still have to sit down and argue, but we will make sure that we can make a difference in the lives of the people around us as well.
Did you miss not earning Rs 7 crore?
All I can say is that it has been a wonderful experience. And anyone who feels you have it, go to KBC. It will change your life.
Kaun Banega Crorepati 12 airs on Sony TV.
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