Veteran actor Nana Patekar was originally scheduled to appear on the premiere episode of Sony Marathi’s quiz show Kon Honar Crorepati, which would have marked an on-screen reunion with Madhuri Dixit decades after their 1998 film Wajood. However, following his sudden passing at the age of 75, the program's schedule shifted, and Sonali Bendre stepped in to take his place as the celebrity guest for the opening episode.
The new season premieres with Madhuri Dixit taking the helm as host, bringing a female lead to the Marathi adaptation for the first time. The opening episode also marks the first time Madhuri and Sonali share screen space, as the two established actors have never previously worked together in a feature film.
During the episode, Sonali takes the hot seat to play on behalf of the Happy Pet Foundation, discussing her advocacy work in animal welfare alongside personal anecdotes. The conversation also touches on family life, household responsibilities, and the mutual admiration between the two prominent actors.
Following the news of Nana Patekar's death, Madhuri shared an emotional tribute on social media, remembering him as a powerful personality, a great artist, and an unforgettable voice who left a lasting legacy in Indian cinema. Patekar's extensive career in Hindi and Marathi films featured acclaimed performances in projects like Krantiveer, Parinda, and Ab Tak Chhappan, earning him multiple National Film Awards and the Padma Shri.
The new season of Kon Honar Crorepati launches under the tagline that the game is changing, with subsequent episodes featuring various well-known personalities from across Maharashtra.