The reality television bug has bitten again, this time with actor Jeet wearing the anchor’s hat. Koti Takar Baji, an hour-long game show to be aired on weekends from October 15 on STAR Jalsha, promises to turn the money game on its head and make everyone a kotipati from the very beginning. Jeet shares his million-dollar experience with t2…

What is Koti Takar Baji all about?

This is going to be one of the most exciting game shows on Indian television! The game is based on a successful UK-based game show called the Million Pound Drop Live, whose rights the makers of Koti Takar Baji have acquired. The game is based not just on luck or rote knowledge, but on prompt reactions and lots of strategy.

How is the format different from other game shows?

Well, unlike the rest, here the contestants are given Rs 1 crore at the start. So, they are all kotipatis. Then they have to go through three rounds with eight questions each and try and save as much money as they can. Depending on which answer they bet on most, they will either win the money or lose it totally. The game has to be played with a lot of strategy and intelligence.

You had earlier done a reality show with kids (Star Of Bengal) for Zee Bangla, what made you take up another?

Quite a few things, actually. Firstly, I am honoured to host a show that, for the first time, is getting launched not in Hindi on a national channel, but in Bengali. Secondly, a money-based game show is a platform where a lot of people come with the hope of winning the prize in order to fulfil their dreams. Thirdly, the reach of TV is huge, there are so many who don’t visit theatres to see movies, but watch TV… I wanted to connect with them. And, of course, there was the added hook of hosting such a glossy and glamorous show… the sets, the production house, even the director (Kapil Batra). He has directed biggies like Amitabh Bachchan in Bigg Boss and Shah Rukh Khan in Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hain?.

How was the experience of interacting with the audience?

Superb! But it was not easy. When some of the contestants lost, I felt low.

How did you prepare for the show?

There were several practice sessions with dummy participants. The part where I had to improvise was during my personal interactions with the contestants. But considering that I am a huge adda-baaj and love to talk, it was natural.

Any favourite reality show host you had in mind?

I thought about it for a while, then I realised that I wanted to be “me” on the show. People like who I am and I wanted to be just that. So throughout the show, you see Brand Jeet and only his influence.

How have you been dividing your time between TV and films?

It is a simple matter of prioritising. I knew that I wanted to be a part of this show and that it would take about 15-17 days to can 26 episodes, so I just rearranged my schedule.

Any other projects you are busy with?

Yes. I will be off to Thailand with my co-star Koel (Mallick) to shoot a song sequence for Raviji’s (Kinnagi) film.