From Salman to Oprah

Mona

Amitabh Bachchan made history when he debuted as a show host of famous Kaun Banega Crorepati back in 2000. Having enjoyed the successful stint as its Season 17 got wrapped up just recently, the megastar’s success made a number of Bollywood stars trying to replicate the success. Currently, it’s Salman Khan picking up TRPs for Bigg Boss Season 11 and a fat pay packet. On TV Talk Show Host Day, we ask tricity folks to play favourites...

When spade is a spade 

Arnab Goswami. Here is a man who can call a spade a spade and is fearless, ferocious when it comes to defending issues close to his heart or attaching anyone taking anti-national stance. He is the man of the hour who can play the impartial media watchdog, one of the important pillars of an effective democracy. – Pankaj Sharma, banker

Aamir, where are you?

Aamir Khan is not seen anymore but the impact he has left by taking up burning issues is unparalleled in the history of Indian television. Satyamev Jayate, somehow achieved the cult status that Ramayana and Mahabharta   enjoyed. And, I am hopeful to have yet another of its season soon. – Tushar Malhi, student BTech

The unparalleled AB  

Mr Bachchan, ofcourse. What Kaun Banega Crorepati did in terms of entertainment and informative knowledge has been superb. And it’s only senior Bachchan who owns the ‘hot’ seat! Season 9 and counting, this show has revolutionised Indian television and its viewer. – Saneha Rajput, teacher

Jimmy is the guy! 

Jimmy Kimmel is my man! He is one host who doesn’t shy from taking up personal/professional issues on his shows and when he got teary eyed talking about his son’s health or Vegas’ shootings, one couldn’t help but feel connected. If entertaining is one, informative two and taking on the issues head on – his style - Jimmy Kimmel Live is all rolled in one! – Vivek Bawa, software professional 

Dear Oprah, you’re the best 

Oprah all the way! I believe the first host who could dare say, ‘Please don’t speak if you are not comfortable’ rather than trying to sensationalise the nondescript issues. The Oprah Winfrey Show humanised the celebs and turned ordinary folks into stars – such was her power of narrative. – Palak Sood, HR employee

Because he is Salman Khan!  

Take my word – Bigg Boss wouldn’t have entered Season 11 had it not been for its weekend host Salman Khan. Bhai has a charisma that makes even the silly fights enjoyable. Have you noticed how a few of the women in the house keep flirting with him... Well, he makes the reality TV real with his sheer presence and keeping viewers entertained – isn’t that a show host’s primary job? – Kanika Saini, homemaker

Marking   city’s presence 

City lad Aparshakti Khurrana is winning applause as he hosts Om Shanti Om and this actor-anchor is upbeat about the newfound appreciation. “Acting and anchoring are two different fields – while the films make your character popular, it is hosting that takes your real name to the viewers,” says Aparshakti who got recognition as a sports anchor. 

While growing up his favourites have been Javed Jaffrey and Shekhar Suman and of course elder brother Ayushmann Khurrana. “Ayushmann, not just because he is my brother but because what he did with his craft is remarkable. And, of course growing up Javed Jaffrey and Shekhar Suman were remarkable!”

Happy that anchors are finely finding their space under the sun, he says, “Gone are the days when acting, anchoring, stand up comedy were merged in one, anchoring has come out of the shadows of its two more famous twins and it’s heartening!”

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