‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 17’ featured an episode where personal stories and resolve took centre stage. Pooja Shah, an online teacher from Mumbai, joined the show with a heartfelt aim: to support her son, who has cerebral palsy and epilepsy.
The episode, saw Pooja share the realities of her daily challenges, moving both host Amitabh Bachchan and the audience.
Pooja described her routine as caretaker for her parents and son, who requires regular therapy. Her residence, on the fourth floor without a lift, makes daily life particularly difficult.
She stated, “I live on fourth floor in a building with no lift. It gets difficult to take him to the therapy. I want to win big amount so that I am able to get a house, which has a lift. It is a necessity for me.”
During the show, Pooja used her audience poll lifeline on the Rs 7,50,000 question about the location of the ASEAN headquarters, which she answered correctly as Jakarta. She chose to walk away from the Rs 25 lakh question, securing Rs 12,50,000. Her approach demonstrated cautious gameplay and focus on her goals.
Moved by Pooja’s story, Amitabh Bachchan offered his support. The host told Pooja, “I will try to find out where he can get better treatment and also you don’t have to spend a lot.” This moment resonated with the audience, who offered a standing ovation.
The episode also featured Rohit Kumar and Vijay Sindhi. Rohit Kumar won Rs 7.5 lakh after using lifelines for a mythology question. Vijay Sindhi, from Rajasthan, answered questions on food and nature, taking home Rs 25,000.
Pooja teaches coding and mathematics online. Her family praised her for managing household responsibilities alongside supporting her son’s therapy. Her story highlighted the intersection of personal ambition and family welfare.
Pooja noted that while her son receives therapy, the absence of a lift in her home is a significant barrier. She mentioned there is no cure for his conditions, but therapy is essential for his well-being.
The audience and Amitabh Bachchan’s response to Pooja’s situation added a poignant element to the episode, with the show focusing on stories that go beyond competition, reflecting the realities faced by many families caring for children with special needs.
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