Kapil Sharma didn't have identity, got show because of me: Navjot Singh Sidhu

India Today

a day ago

Former cricketer and politician Navjot Singh Sidhu has claimed that he played a pivotal role in helping Kapil Sharma secure his big break. In a candid vlog on his YouTube channel, Sidhu shared how he became part of 'The Kapil Sharma Show', revealing that it was Kapil who approached him with a special request.According to Sidhu, the channel had one key condition before giving Kapil his own show: Sidhu had to come on board as a permanent guest.advertisement'Kapil came to me and said, 'Paaji, I have a request. If you agree to be part of my show, they will give me an independent show,'' Sidhu recalled. He added, 'When I asked who made that call, he said Raj Nayak sahab, then the head of Colors. Raj Nayak wanted me on the show to boost TRPs. We met over breakfast, and I agreed.'
Reflecting on Kapil's early days, Sidhu added, 'Kapil rose to fame with 'The Great Indian Laughter Challenge'. Later, he was exploited in Comedy Circus and didn't have an identity of his own. I stepped in when he needed support.'A few days ago, Netflix officially announced on Instagram that Navjot Singh Sidhu will return to 'The Great Indian Kapil Show' after nearly six years, sparking excitement among fans nationwide.advertisementHere's the announcement: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in)Sidhu was a regular presence on Kapil's shows from 2012 to 2019 across Colors and Sony Entertainment Television. He stepped away after a controversial remark made in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack. Now, he is all set to return as the show's permanent guest, alongside Archana Puran Singh. 'The Great Indian Kapil Show Season 3' will premiere on June 21.In the same vlog, Sidhu also opened up about his stint on 'Bigg Boss' in 2012, revealing that he took part in the reality show due to financial constraints.'Bigg Boss gave a lucrative offer,' Sidhu admitted. 'People often lose their reputation by going on the show, but I took the challenge because I needed money to build my house in Amritsar. I wouldn't have been able to afford it with my earnings as a politician," he said.Sidhu disclosed that the show offered him a high payout, though the producers could only afford to keep him for a month. Despite his early exit, he said he maintained his dignity and never spoke ill of anyone during his time on the show. 'I left without damaging my image, and that opened new doors for me,' he added.Following 'Bigg Boss', Sidhu was offered a commentary job with Star Sports, marking a new chapter in his post-politics career.Must Watch