KBC row over Shivaji Maharaj's reference: Amitabh Bachchan apologises

A question on quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) on Sony TV, which had a reference to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, triggered a controversy and invited charge that it showed "disrespect" to 17th century Maratha warrior. television channel late last night issued an on-air apology for inaccurate reference to Maratha king, which it said, was an inadvertent error. And w, host Amitabh Bachchan took to his Twitter handle and issued an apology about same.

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controversy erupted when on Wednesday a question was asked in show, hosted by megastar Amitabh Bachchan, about contemporaries of Aurangazeb, a Mughal emperor who ruled major parts of India in 17th century. Among four options, Chhatrapati Shivaji was mentioned as "Shivaji", while or options were Maharana Pratap, Rana Sanga and Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

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Irked with such a reference, several people took to social media to criticise Sony and seek an apology. channel, by way of a ticker, issued an apology during Thursday's KBC episode. "re was an inaccurate reference to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during Wednesdays KBC episode, due to inadvertence. "We deeply regret same and being mindful of sentiments of our viewers have carried a scroll expressing regret during our episode yesterday. #KBC11." channel said.

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Maharashtra BJP MLA Nitesh Rane, earlier on Friday, demanded an apology from entertainment giant for a "disrespectful" reference to Shivaji Maharaj. Rane said, "@sonykbc10 has insulted (Shivaji Maharaj) by referring him in first person singular form. It should tender apology at earliest." Issuing a warning, he said, "If y delay it (apology) furr, show will t have any life line to continue furr."

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(WITH PTI INPUTS)