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Bigg Boss Kannada 11 to premiere on 29 September
Mumbai: Colors Kannada is launching season 11 of Bigg Boss, one of India’s biggest reality shows. The premiere will air on 29 September at 6 pm, with daily episodes following at 9:30 pm and on Jio Cinema. This season features a ‘Hell and Heaven’ theme, where contestants are divided into two groups—one enjoying luxury and the other facing challenges without basic amenities.
For the first time, contestants will be revealed before the show’s launch during the Raja Rani Reloaded Grand Finale on 28 September, where viewers will decide who goes to hell and who enters heaven. Kiccha Sudeep will return as host, bringing his experience and leadership to the show. This season will feature a diverse mix of celebrities and influencers, with a larger Bigg Boss house designed for elaborate games and tasks, promising drama and unexpected moments.
Kiccha Sudeep said, “Ten seasons has been an incredible journey. Stepping into the 11th season is altogether an additional responsibility. With a refreshed format and a new concept, this season is not just another chapter—it’s a legacy we’re all building together. I’m excited for the newer lot.”
Viacom18 president- general entertainment Alok Jain said, “Bigg Boss has always been a trailblazing property in the media and entertainment landscape, consistently breaking through the clutter with its dynamic, engaging content that resonates across languages and regions. As one of the most impactful franchises on television, it captivates millions with its high-voltage entertainment and unmatched viewer connection. Our aim is to always delight audiences and keep our promise of bringing new and exciting content to our viewers in Karnataka. This season of Bigg Boss Kannada introduces the exciting ‘Hell and Heaven’ theme, foretelling a thrilling experience for our audiences. We’re also thankful to our brand partners for being part of journey. Their association is a testament to the show’s reach and success across the region.”
Banijay Asia and EndemolShine India founder and group CEO Deepak Dhar said, “We are excited to bring the 11th season of Bigg Boss Kannada to our viewers, packed with high-energy entertainment and drama, with the iconic Kiccha Sudeep returning as host. The overwhelming love and support from our audience year after year has driven us to raise the bar for the show once again. Our continued partnership with Colors Kannada and JioCinema promises another successful season to our beloved audiences in India & beyond. At EndemolShine India, our focus is to tailor engaging formats like Bigg Boss to resonate with linguistic & cultural preferences across regions. We are confident that this season will not only entertain but engage and thrill viewers, as Bigg Boss Kannada continues to grow stronger each year.”
Bigg Boss Kannada Season 11 is co-powered by Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil, with special partners Sadguru Ayurveda Gram Flour Soap, Sudarshan Silks, Haier, Nirantara Divine Puja Oil, India Gate Basmati Rice, A23 Rummy, associate partner Hangyo Ice Cream and Amrutanjan, along with prize partner Confident Group and digital partner Vimal Elaichi and Sharief Bhai Biryani.
Viewers can enjoy Bigg Boss Kannada episodes for free on Jio Cinema the day after they air, catching all the action free of cost.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
