Navjot Singh Sidhu, a familiar face and former judge on The Great Indian Kapil Show, is set to make a much-anticipated return to the show after five years. This return, however, isn’t in his former judge’s seat, which he once occupied with his distinct laughter and poetic one-liners, but as a guest. Sidhu will appear alongside his wife, Navjot Kaur Sidhu, and cricketer Harbhajan Singh with his wife, Geeta Basra, in an episode that promises nostalgic laughter and heartfelt moments.
Fans are excited about Sidhu’s return, especially since his departure from the show in 2019 was clouded by controversy. While Sidhu was replaced by Archana Puran Singh, who took over his seat as judge, many viewers were left wondering why he left and if he would ever return. Now, as Sidhu reappears on the show, viewers get a chance to relive the comedic chemistry between him and Kapil Sharma and revisit the circumstances that led to his exit from the show.
The Return of Sidhu and the Audience’s Reaction
In a preview for the upcoming episode, Sidhu’s reappearance is teased as he takes his old seat on the show, currently occupied by Archana Puran Singh. The episode begins with Kapil Sharma mistaking Sidhu for Sunil Grover, who often impersonates Sidhu. This playful interaction sets the tone for a humorous episode. As Kapil realizes it’s the real Navjot Singh Sidhu, a wave of excitement fills the stage. Archana Puran Singh then enters, humorously protesting Sidhu’s takeover of her seat, jokingly pleading with Kapil to get Sidhu off her chair. “Kabza karke baith gaye hai,” she quips, playing on Sidhu’s trademark dominance over his seat.
The episode is a reunion not only for Kapil and Sidhu but also for the entire cast and crew, who once shared countless memorable moments with the former judge. Sunil Grover, Krushna Abhishek, and Rajiv Thakur all join the episode, with Sunil, in particular, teasing Sidhu by impersonating him. This light-hearted interaction between the cast members adds a sense of nostalgia and showcases the irreplaceable chemistry Sidhu once brought to the show.
The Journey to Sidhu’s Exit: What Really Happened?
While Sidhu’s return brings joy to fans, his absence over the past five years has been a topic of debate and speculation. Sidhu’s exit from the show was not a planned or voluntary departure but rather a result of public outrage following his comments regarding the 2019 Pulwama attack. In February 2019, a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama region resulted in the tragic death of 40 CRPF personnel. Sidhu condemned the attack, calling it “cowardly” and insisting that violence was condemnable. However, in the same breath, he questioned if an entire country or an individual should be blamed for the actions of “a handful of people,” a statement that drew sharp backlash.
The timing of Sidhu’s comments fueled anger, and many people began to call for his removal from The Kapil Sharma Show. The situation escalated quickly, with #BoycottSidhu trending on social media, as outraged viewers threatened to boycott the show until Sidhu was removed from his role as judge. Facing pressure from the public and dealing with a national controversy, the channel ultimately decided to distance itself from Sidhu, asking him to step down.
While neither the show’s makers nor the channel made an official statement, insiders reported that Sidhu’s comments created unwanted attention and controversy for the show. Thus, Archana Puran Singh stepped in, initially as a temporary replacement, but she soon became a permanent fixture on the show.
Sidhu’s Response to His Departure
Following his abrupt exit, Sidhu claimed he wasn’t informed about any decision to remove him from the show. He addressed the matter in a video, explaining that he had taken a brief leave to attend the Vidhan Sabha session and was surprised to find out he’d been replaced. He reiterated that his stance on the Pulwama attack remained unchanged, despite the backlash. Sidhu’s response was unapologetic, as he maintained his position, expressing regret only for the misunderstanding it had caused.
Kapil Sharma also expressed disappointment over Sidhu’s exit, mentioning that he didn’t support the decision to let Sidhu go. Kapil clarified that Sidhu was absent due to prior commitments, and Archana’s presence was initially meant to be a temporary solution. Kapil publicly voiced his discomfort with “propaganda” leading to Sidhu’s dismissal, suggesting that banning Sidhu was not a solution and that a more constructive dialogue could have addressed the situation. This vocal support from Kapil highlighted the bond between the two and further emphasized the gap left by Sidhu’s absence.
Archana Puran Singh: A New Era on The Kapil Sharma Show
After Sidhu’s exit, Archana Puran Singh officially joined The Kapil Sharma Show as a judge. Her wit and vibrant personality quickly won over audiences, and she developed her own rapport with Kapil and the rest of the cast. Archana’s laughter and banter became a hallmark of the show, with many fans appreciating her unique charm. Her presence on the show added a fresh dynamic that allowed the show to continue successfully despite Sidhu’s departure.
Archana’s transition from a temporary replacement to a permanent judge became symbolic of the show’s resilience and adaptability. Over time, fans embraced her as an integral part of The Kapil Sharma Show, and the dynamic between her and Kapil developed its own loyal following.
Sidhu’s Return as a Guest, Not a Judge
Sidhu’s return to The Great Indian Kapil Show on Netflix has generated excitement among fans. However, it’s important to note that his appearance is as a guest, not as a judge, as he joins the episode with his wife, Navjot Kaur Sidhu, alongside Harbhajan Singh and Geeta Basra. Netflix released a promotional clip showing Sidhu seated on the judge’s chair, with Archana Puran Singh momentarily replaced. The promo playfully hints at Sidhu’s return, while clarifying that he is visiting as a guest, giving fans a chance to witness the former judge in his iconic role without altering the show’s current setup.
The episode promises to be a memorable one, filled with humor, nostalgia, and heartwarming interactions. Sidhu’s return, even in a guest capacity, brings an opportunity for fans to see the dynamic that once made the show popular. For Kapil Sharma, it’s a chance to reunite with an old friend and mentor, rekindling the on-screen camaraderie that fans adored.
A Look Ahead
Sidhu’s reappearance is a reminder of his influential role in shaping the humor and essence of The Kapil Sharma Show and, later, The Great Indian Kapil Show. While his exit was marked by controversy, his return reflects a chance for reconciliation and celebration of the comedy legacy he helped build. Archana Puran Singh remains the current judge, bringing her own charm and laughter to the show. As fans eagerly tune in to the episode, they can enjoy a glimpse of the old magic while embracing the new dynamics that have kept the show going strong.
Ultimately, Sidhu’s return as a guest highlights the resilience of the show and the lasting appeal of its characters. It’s a chance for fans to remember the past and celebrate the present, as The Great Indian Kapil Show continues to bring laughter and joy to households across the country.