Nazia Nasim from Delhi has become the first contestant of Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 12 to win Rs 1 crore. In an exclusive chat with us, Nazia shares her journey from home to the hot seat

• Tell us something about your background.

I was born and raised in Ranchi. In 2004, I joined the Indian Institute of Mass Communication in Delhi to do a PG diploma in advertising and PR. Since then I am in Delhi. I got married in 2008. Currently, I am working in a corporate firm.

• How did the idea of participating in KBC come?

It came from my mother. She has been a die-hard fan of KBC. More than a game show it was Amitabh Bachchan’s personality which inspired us to participate. I remember my father and I used to wake up early morning and go to the telephone booth to answer the KBC questions. I have tried for more than 8-10 seasons and finally, got a chance this year. For me, 2020 is the best year of my life.

• What kind of preparations did you do for KBC?

KBC is not like any other competitive exam. I have not prepared much for it. It was more like refreshing the knowledge I have accumulated in my life. For me, it was a Slumdog Millionaire moment.

• How will you define the moment when you saw Amitabh Bachchan on the set?

He has this larger than life personality but he is super cool on the set. He is very humble. He walks into the room, looks into your eyes and asks you to play well. But at times he gets upset when you can’t answer a simple question. Mr Bachchan’s professionalism, his enthusiasm can put a 30-year- old to shame.

• What was the question which fetched you one crore?

It was tricky. I was not sure of the question so I used my lifeline and flipped the question. The second question was – which actress has won National Award for playback singing? I filtered the answers and replied Rupa Ganguly which was correct. My strategy was to keep eliminating wrong options, so you will be left with the right answer.

• This time because of the pandemic situation there is no live audience. How would you define the atmosphere on the set?

The KBC team took care of all safety protocols. Right from being in quarantine to Covid test to not roaming without an escort, they took good care. And honestly when you have Mr. Bachchan in front of you don’t look for other things. I was too engrossed in the vibrant atmosphere.

• What will you be doing with the money you won?

I will use the money for medical expenses for my parents and in-laws. My son is a soccer enthusiast, so we will be able to get him proper training. And will also be donating 2.5 per cent of the amount for charity as per our religion.