The highly anticipated reality show, ‘Big Boss 11,’ is set to premiere on Colors Kannada on 28th October with a grand opening. Leading the show, as always, is the pride of Kannada cinema, Kichcha Sudeepa. This season, the show will feature the intriguing theme of ‘Swarga and Naraka’ (Heaven and Hell).
The tagline for the season is, ‘10 Varshadinda Ondu Lekka, Iga Bere Ne Lekka, Hosa Adhyaya Shuru’—marking the beginning of a new chapter that has garnered significant attention. “Eradaralli Kichchu Ashte Ide,” says the iconic Kichcha Sudeepa with his signature swag.
Explaining the delay, Sudeepa mentioned that a late arrival from Mumbai and a Billa Ranga Basha look test were the reasons. He emphasized that while the core of Big Boss remains unchanged, the adaptations and contestant dynamics bring something fresh. This season will feature two teams in a 98-day challenge, revolving around the concept of heaven and hell. In the first week, contestants are typically camera-friendly, showing emotions and laughing even at the wrong moments. However, after the initial week, the true dynamics of heaven and hell will begin to unfold.
Prashanth Naik, the head of Kannada business, noted that it’s a team effort every year, and the success of previous seasons has only increased their responsibilities. While the show’s design can be planned, Sudeepa’s suggestions and role as the ‘Sutradara’ (director) are crucial. He also revealed three hashtags for the season: #BBK11, #ColorsKannada, and #HosaAdhyaya.
In this Hosa Adhyaya (new chapter), there will be variations in the contestants, and for the first time, the audience will be able to vote on which side contestants should be placed—Swarga or Naraka.
Alok Jain, Senior Executive Vice President of Viacom 18, remarked, “Last year, I was present at the start of the season. It’s the team that makes the show, and this year, we have an even stronger one. The 113-day run of the previous season was the most successful in the show’s history, and it brought additional responsibilities. We’ve worked hard for several months to refine the pitch for this season. The heaven and hell concept introduces a philosophical angle, which is exciting. Fingers crossed, we’re hopeful and a little nervous.”
Deepak Dhar, Founder and Group CEO of Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India, shared how the Big Boss format was first brought to India in 2005 in Hindi, and how they have taken a significant leap of faith in the Kannada market. He praised Sudeepa for breathing life into the show and commended the tireless work of the team. Dhar emphasized that this season is not just a show but an event of grand scale.
The phenomenon that is Kichcha Sudeepa later addressed various questions from the media, with the finesse of a seasoned player, even likening his responses to batting like Vivian Richards!
Regarding gambling advertisements, Sudeepa urged Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take action to stop them. “We are unable to do it,” he said.
Sudeepa also revealed that he had initially hesitated to continue with this season. However, a team visited him at home to convince him otherwise. “It wasn’t a gimmick. I didn’t want that to happen. We had an understanding.”
On balancing his commitments to Big Boss and his film career, Sudeepa remarked, “Sometimes I feel like getting slapped for taking on so much. But it’s an honor to be part of this beautiful show. My life comes to a standstill for four days during the shoot—Friday to Saturday night I’m in the studio. But they’ve made me comfortable. The house, designed like Swarga and Naraka, is truly unique.”
“There are no retakes. Once the camera is on, it’s live for me and the contestants. I react immediately. If a major reading happens, I might fumble once or twice, but my legs have stood the test of time for these long hours.”
Sudeepa made it clear that he has no personal agenda with the contestants. “It’s a razor’s edge walk for them. If they don’t handle it well, there are consequences. No friendships count in the house. While perceptions can change during discussions, I have to remain neutral. Big Boss has taught me a lot about life.”
On ratings, he said, “Success is important for the show. It’s not about who the Big Boss is. What matters is how the show performs.”
Wrapping up, Sudeepa reflected on his journey, saying, ‘Nanna thatte ashte agala I take’—he can only take so much, but it’s not about the money. “I was tired of traveling. It’s about the market. Ten years of Big Boss and 28 years in the industry—I’ve earned my place.”
On the upcoming season, Sudeepa concluded with a philosophical note, “In Swarga, there is no Naraka, and in Naraka, there is no Swarga.”
