Telugu 'Bigg Boss' to go on air on July 15

The Telugu version of reality TV show "Bigg Boss", which will mark the television debut of actor Junior NTR, will go on air on July 15, its makers announced on Tuesday.

In a statement, it was confirmed that the first episode will be aired on July 15.

The show will have 12 celebrity contestants brought together for 70 days, surrounded by 60 cameras and cut off from the outside world in one huge house.

"The show is bringing many firsts to the Telugu entertainment space. It is the most expensive show to ever be created in Telugu television. It has one of the largest sets, with more than 10,000 sq ft area and nearly 750 people working on the project at any given point of time," read the statement.

"Bigg Boss" is the Indian version of the international format "Big Brother", one of the most successful reality television series ever. The Endemol-owned format "Big Brother" has had 10 blockbuster seasons in Hindi.

On donning the hat of a show host, Junior NTR had earlier said in a statement: "Television is one of the biggest mediums for entertainment. When I was approached to host 'Bigg Boss', I was intrigued by the challenge. I believe that the show will be a game changer."