Star Plus is set to strengthen its reality entertainment portfolio with the launch of ‘India Ke Top 1%’, a new competition format hosted by veteran actor Anil Kapoor. The upcoming show promises to move beyond traditional quiz-based programming by focusing on intelligence, logic and decision-making skills rather than testing contestants on factual knowledge alone.

According to a Star Plus press release, ‘India Ke Top 1%’ has been designed as a high-stakes reality format that challenges participants through tasks requiring reasoning, observation, pattern recognition, mental agility and problem-solving under pressure. The broadcaster said the concept aims to redefine how intelligence is perceived and celebrated on television.

Unlike conventional quiz shows that rely heavily on memory and general knowledge, the new format will assess how contestants process information, analyse situations and make quick decisions in challenging scenarios. As the competition progresses, participants will face increasingly difficult rounds, with the ultimate goal of earning recognition among the country’s top 1% thinkers.

The channel believes the format is particularly relevant in today’s information-driven world, where the ability to think critically and adapt quickly can be as valuable as knowledge itself. The show is expected to highlight qualities such as common sense, composure, analytical thinking and practical intelligence.

Sharing his excitement about the project, Anil Kapoor said the format immediately resonated with him because of India’s unique culture of problem-solving and innovation. He noted that intelligence is often shaped by life experiences rather than academic knowledge alone.

“I have always believed that India is a nation driven by raw instinct, unmatched observation, and incredible street-smartness. Walk down any street in our country, and you will find people who can outsmart anyone under the sun, not because they memorized an encyclopedia, but because their brainpower is sharpened by life experiences,” Kapoor said.

The actor also highlighted India’s celebrated spirit of ‘jugaad’, describing it as a defining strength that helps Indians excel across different fields. According to him, the show creates a level playing field where contestants are judged not by what they know, but by how effectively they think under pressure.

“This isn’t a show that asks you which year a treaty was signed; it gauges how efficiently your mind can function under pressure using pure logic and common sense. It completely levels the playing field,” he said.

Kapoor added that he is excited to host the programme and provide a national platform for people to showcase their logical and analytical abilities.

With ‘India Ke Top 1%’, Star Plus is betting on a fresh reality format that combines entertainment with intellectual challenge, offering viewers a different take on competition television. The show is slated to premiere soon on Star Plus.