KBC winner 'shocked' to be chosen for Jhalak Dhikhhla Jaa

Sushil Kumar, who won the jackpot in the fifth season of the reality show Kaun Banega Crorepati, has put on his dancing shoes for Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 5.

A computer operator by profession, Sushil, who is from the Motihari district in Bihar, became an overnight star after winning the prize of Rs 5 crore on KBC.

Here, Sushil explains to Rajul Hegde why he agreed to appear in the show, his dance practice and life after the historic KBC win.

What was your reaction when you got the offer to dance on a reality show?

Shocked! I was like how could they even think of me? How can I dance? 

After a lot of thinking, I felt it's a good opportunity to learn something new so I decided to step out of my comfort zone and dance.

Plus, I felt a common man like me would never get another chance like this to share the stage with celebrities.

Have you danced before?

I have never danced in my life!

When I went to family weddings, I would hide or leave the place before someone dragged me to dance.

Who is your favourite Bollywood actress?

Madhuri Dixit. When I was in school, I had a poster of hers in my room. I still have it. I don't have much knowledge of dancing but I like her Dhak Dhak number. Another reason to take up this show was to meet Madhuri.

Had you heard of this show before you got the offer?

Yes. I mostly watch news on TV and hardly watch fiction and nonfiction shows, but I was aware of this show. I have caught glimpses while flipping news channel but have never watched the show.

How are you preparing yourself for Jhalak?

I have told my choreographer not to expect too much of me. I am finding it a little difficult to learn but I am practicing hard.

I have been exercising and keeping tabs on my diet for the last few days. I love rice and now all I can do is just look at it (smiles).

Are you nervous about your performance and how you will look when you are dancing?

A little bit. Nobody is a perfect dancer on the show; everybody has come to learn. So I don't think people will make fun of my dancing.

My father will be happy to see me dance on a TV show.

How has life changed after KBC?

Life has completely changed after KBC. I am now easily recognised by people. Some of them even consider me as their idol!

My financial condition has also improved. I have cleared my loans, bought property, helped my brothers, kept the rest in fixed deposits. There have been positive changes.