Kaun Banega Crorepati 16: Amitabh Bachchan takes up expenses of contestant Nareshi Meena's brain tumour treatment

In the latest episode of "Kaun Banega Crorepati" Season 16, the iconic Indian television host, Amitabh Bachchan, showcased not only his eloquence and charisma but also his deep empathy and generosity. This was most evident when he decided to personally cover the medical expenses for a contestant named Nareshi Meena, a young woman facing the severe challenge of a brain tumor. Nareshi's participation in the show was not just an attempt to win money; it was a brave stand against the life-threatening odds stacked against her.

 
Hailing from the town of Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan, 27-year-old Nareshi Meena has had her life drastically altered by the diagnosis of a brain tumor. Diagnosed in 2018, Nareshi's battle with this debilitating condition has been long and arduous. Despite undergoing surgery in 2019, her doctors were unable to remove the entire tumor due to its critical location.

This left her with few treatment options, with doctors eventually recommending proton therapy, a cutting-edge but extremely expensive treatment available in only a handful of hospitals across India. The estimated cost of this treatment was between Rs 25 to 30 lakhs—a figure that was insurmountable for Nareshi and her family, who had already sacrificed much, including selling her mother’s jewelry to cover the costs of her previous surgery.

 
Nareshi entered the "Kaun Banega Crorepati" stage not just to win money, but with the hope of securing the funds necessary for her life-saving treatment. Her journey to the hot seat was one of determination and resilience, emblematic of the indomitable spirit she has shown throughout her health crisis. It was clear to everyone watching that her involvement in the show was much more than a pursuit of fame or fortune; it was a testament to her will to live and her desire to overcome her condition.

 
During the show, Amitabh Bachchan, often referred to affectionately as "Big B," engaged Nareshi in a heartfelt conversation about her life and the challenges she had faced. Her story moved him deeply, particularly when she shared the extent of her family’s sacrifices and the emotional and financial toll her illness had taken on them. Despite the gravity of her situation, Nareshi spoke with a smile, displaying remarkable courage and an unwavering positive attitude.

 
The emotional climax of the episode came when Amitabh Bachchan made an announcement that left everyone in the studio, and likely many viewers at home, in awe. Overcome with emotion, Amitabh pledged to cover the entire cost of Nareshi’s proton therapy, ensuring that she would receive the best possible treatment. His words, "Mujhe aapka sahayak banna hai, and now whatever amount you win from the show will be yours. Be rest assured about your treatment," resonated deeply, as they reflected his profound empathy and commitment to using his influence and resources to make a real difference in someone’s life.

 
Nareshi's gratitude was palpable, and the tears in her eyes spoke volumes. She thanked Big B for his generosity, to which he responded with the words, "Badi himmat honi chahiye ek mahila mein, sarvajanik roop se yeh baat karna."

Nareshi Meena’s story on "Kaun Banega Crorepati" is more than just a segment on a game show; it is a powerful narrative of hope, Mar resilience, and the impact of compassion. Beyond the financial support, Amitabh Bachchan’s gesture has likely given Nareshi something even more valuable—hope and the reassurance that she is not alone in her battle.

 
For Nareshi, the immediate future involves undergoing proton therapy and focusing on her recovery. However, her aspirations extend beyond just personal survival. Throughout her battle with illness, Nareshi has been an active participant in her community, particularly in the Women Empowerment Department, where she works to improve the lives of women and girls in her neighborhood. She remains committed to this cause, and her appearance on KBC has given her a platform to further her mission. By sharing her story and her work on national television, Nareshi hopes to inspire other women to persevere in the face of adversity and to seek out the opportunities available to them, no matter how daunting their circumstances may be.

 
The story of Nareshi Meena and Amitabh Bachchan’s extraordinary generosity will undoubtedly resonate with viewers for a long time. It serves as a poignant reminder of the power of kindness and the difference one person can make in the lives of others. It also underscores the importance of addressing healthcare inequalities and the need for more accessible treatment options for serious illnesses in India.