Khatron ke khiladi – Level 2 – Reality show

What’s it about?

Reality TV these days is all about facing one’s fears and challenging one’s physical and mental limits. No show does this better than Khatron Ke Khiladi, the desi version of the global hit Fear Factor. The first level of the show was instrumental in establishing TV channel, Colors as a major player in the Indian entertainment market. With its second level, the show hopes to keep the channel reigning at the top, with a potent mix of chills, thrills and very few frills. The format of the show remains unchanged. Thirteen women— minor celebrities— are paired with people in need of money. The idea is for the pairs to complete two difficult tasks, involving both creepy crawlies and physical challenges, with the weakest performers being eliminated at the end of the day’s tasks. As the show likes to keep stressing, it’s not just plenty of moolah that hangs in the balance; it’s also a chance to confront and defeat one’s darkest fears.

Who’s in it? Action star Akshay

Kumar is back as the host on Level 2, played out in lovely South Africa. Other actors may have failed to connect with the formats of their shows, but with Kumar, there’s no such complaint. As the original daredevil of Hindi cinema and a martial arts champ, Kumar perfectly fits the profile required to host the show. He talks straight, is witty and sympathetic when required, but is also a tough taskmaster and doesn’t suffer fools gladly. As for the contestants, they include such diverse names as model Sushama Reddy, TV host Mandira Bedi, actress Nauheed Cyrusi and even, strangely, actor Saif Ali Khan’s ex, Rosa Catalano. Also getting their stomachs churned are reality show veterans Carol Gracias and Anushka Manchanda