The seventeenth season of the iconic quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati witnessed a special and memorable episode featuring one of India's most prominent industrialists. Kumar Mangalam Birla, the Chairperson of the Aditya Birla Group, graced the hot seat for a candid conversation with host Amitabh Bachchan, accompanied by his family.
A Glimpse into the Birla Journey and Family Ties
During his appearance, Kumar Mangalam Birla opened up about pivotal moments in his life and career. He spoke emotionally about the phase after losing his father, Aditya Kumar Birla, and reflected on his close relationship with his grandfather, Basant Kumar Birla (B.K. Birla). The conversation naturally steered towards the storied relationship between the Birla and Tata families, two pillars of Indian industry.
The discussion was triggered when Birla correctly answered a question for Rs 2,00,000. The question was: "Ratan Tata graduated from Cornell University with a degree in which of these disciplines?" Birla correctly chose Option A) Architecture.
The Historic Birla-Tata Bond: More Than Just Business
Following the answer, Amitabh Bachchan inquired about the relations between the two families. Kumar Mangalam Birla was effusive in his praise and revealed the depth of their connection. He stated in Hindi that the families have always shared a very close relationship, noting that JRD Tata and his grandfather were close friends.
"There was a time when the Birla family held more shares in some Tata companies than the Tatas themselves. That’s how strong the trust and bond between the two families was," Birla revealed, highlighting an unparalleled level of mutual confidence.
He further shared a personal anecdote about Ratan Tata's friendship with his father. "Ratan Tata and my father were also good friends. He was with us at my father's last rites and told me, 'Always remember you have a friend in me'. He was a great humanitarian. His passing... last year we lost a true son of India," Birla said emotionally.
Amitabh Bachchan's Personal Tributes and Humorous Anecdotes
Big B, acknowledging the legacy of both families, remarked that India is often referred to as the country of "Tata-Birla". He lauded Ratan Tata as an "incredible human being" who led a simple life and never flaunted his lineage. Bachchan mentioned collaborating with him on government-sponsored initiatives like Polio eradication and the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
The host also narrated a humorous incident to illustrate Tata's humility. Bachchan said that before going on stage, Tata would always insist, "please after you." To convince him otherwise, Bachchan would joke, "Ratan ji, Age Before Beauty," a line that never failed to elicit laughter.
Adding to the personal recollections, Kumar Mangalam Birla recalled an event where he noticed Ratan Tata seemed uneasy. Upon asking, Tata admitted he was nervous about delivering a speech. When Birla reminded him of his vast experience, Tata simply replied, "So what? Speeches have always made me nervous." Birla fondly called him a 'simple man', cementing the image of the late industrialist as a figure of great humility despite his colossal achievements.
The episode served as a rare public insight into the personal lives and enduring values of two of India's most revered business dynasties, blending quiz, nostalgia, and heartfelt tribute.
