Back on the hot seat

Big B is back! Amitabh Bachchan has begun filming for the 17th season of the iconic quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati. This year’s edition doesn’t just promise new contestants and fresh trivia but also celebrates 25 years of the legendary show with a host of surprises. “With a new season and the legendary host at the helm, KBC 17 promises to be one of the most sought-after shows on Indian television. The opening episode will not only present some new announcements but also brings with it a fresh wave of excitement,” said the makers in a statement. Expect nostalgia, new stories, and plenty of lifelines!

Celebrating true talent

Sonu Nigam; (right) Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani, and Loy Mendonsa

Music directors Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani, and Loy  Mendonsa will receive the National Lata Mangeshkar Award 2024, announced by the Madhya Pradesh government. Singer Sonu Nigam is set to receive the 2025 honour. The State Culture Department also announced that lyricist Prasoon Joshi and filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali will be conferred with the National Kishore Kumar Award for 2024 and 2025, respectively. The Lata Mangeshkar award ceremony will be held in Indore — the late singer’s birthplace — on September 28, while the Kishore Kumar honour will be presented in Khandwa on October 13, where the legendary actor-singer was born. Two musical legends, two iconic birthplaces, and a few very happy awardees!