By Anil Merani: Navjot Singh Sidhu’s return to The Great Indian Kapil Show on Netflix has stirred excitement, primarily due to his nostalgic connection with the show. As a former cricketer and beloved figure on earlier seasons, Sidhu’s recent guest appearance in Season 2, Episode 9 has reignited interest, with ongoing discussions about a potential return for Season 3, starting June 21, 2025.
Impact of Sidhu’s Return
Nostalgia and Viewership Boost: Sidhu’s comeback taps into viewer nostalgia, attracting long-time fans. His appearance alongside notable guests generated significant buzz on social media, with many expressing a preference for Sidhu over Archana Puran Singh, who took over after his exit in 2019.
Enhanced Comedy Dynamics: Sidhu’s signature humor—characterized by shayaris and lively banter with Kapil Sharma—adds a unique flavor to the show. His presence could lead to new comedic segments that align with the show’s celebrity-driven format.
Global Appeal: With the show on Netflix, Sidhu’s popularity among Indian audiences worldwide can enhance its international appeal, fitting into Netflix’s strategy of blending nostalgia with fresh content.
Potential Challenges: However, Sidhu’s controversial 2019 exit raises concerns about backlash. The show’s producers will need to manage this sensitively, especially given past social media trends.
Will Archana Puran Singh Be Left Out?
Despite speculation about a two-judge format, Archana Puran Singh is likely to remain part of the show.
Sidhu’s Condition for Return: Sidhu has expressed a desire to return only if Archana is also on the panel, indicating he doesn’t intend to replace her. Both he and Kapil Sharma have suggested accommodating both judges, which has received a positive response from fans.
Archana’s Established Role: Since 2019, Archana has established herself on the show, bringing her own charm. Recent interactions with Sidhu have shown camaraderie rather than competition, and she has expressed support for his potential return.
Feasibility of Two-Judge Format: The idea of a two-judge format has been enthusiastically received, suggesting that both Sidhu and Archana can successfully coexist and contribute to the show’s appeal.