The fourth season of The Great Indian Kapil Show is all set to hit Netflix, and it promises more laughter, more drama, and a surprising twist — the return of Navjot Singh Sidhu to the judge’s seat. After a six-year long hiatus, Sidhu joins Archana Puran Singh as a co-judge, reigniting interest and speculation about the dynamics — especially when it comes to their paycheques.
Archana Puran Singh has been the show’s unwavering force since she replaced Sidhu in 2019, following his controversial remarks post the Pulwama attack. Despite the transition, Archana carved her own niche and became a beloved presence on the show.
As per reports by Siasat, she is reportedly earning between Rs 10 lakh to Rs 12 lakh per episode.
In a recent interview with The Indian Express, Archana responded to criticism and jokes about her role. “Yes, I am paid to judge a comedy show, which is what I initially started doing with Comedy Circus. Now, I am paid to not judge Kapil's Show, but to be a celebrity guest. I don't even know what my role is. Kapil only keeps joking… In a way, I am paid to enjoy the show,” she explained. “Because my enjoyment is very loud and spontaneous, it translates to I am paid to laugh.”
Meanwhile, Navjot Singh Sidhu’s return comes with a much heftier price tag. According to Filmibeat, Sidhu is reportedly being paid Rs 30 lakh to Rs 40 lakh per episode, which is more than double what Archana is believed to be receiving. Though these figures are unofficial and not confirmed by the show's producers, they’ve sparked widespread conversation online.
While Sidhu did appear recently on the show as a guest, alongside his wife and cricketer Harbhajan Singh with Geeta Basra, his return as a permanent fixture on the judge's panel is a significant moment for the show’s legacy — and its finances.
With both Sidhu and Archana on board, The Great Indian Kapil Show is expected to offer an extra dose of nostalgia and entertainment. The first episode, streaming from June 21, features none other than Salman Khan as the inaugural guest, promising a blockbuster start to the season.
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