Episode Premiere: December 11th, 2008
Time: 8 pm / 7 pm Central
Network: FOX
As many of you know, my episode for Secret Millionaire premieres today. After I sold BlueLithium to Yahoo last year, I also signed a 3-year non-compete. So I decided to make a list of all the different things I wanted to do outside of “business.” One was to write my memoir, “The Dream”, and another was to develop reality-based television shows that could inspire people. In November 2007, I signed up with William Morris to explore both of these projects. My agent introduced me to a group of producers of who were doing a show at FOX called “Secret Millionaire,” And who asked me if I wanted to be on the show. I was skeptical at first but I liked the premise: Going undercover and helping people that have no expectations. In February, I was cast as the first Secret Millionaire and began filming the show. Surprisingly enough, this ended up becoming one of the best experiences of my life.
You sometimes wonder why certain things happen to you – especially at certain points in your life. Perhaps, this was God’s way of reminding me that no matter how successful I become – to never forget where I came from. This type of neighborhood was familiar territory for me because more than twenty years ago, when my parents came to the United States from India, we lived in the projects of East San Jose.
During the week I filmed the show, I spent most of my time at two charities. St. Anthony’s Dining Room (soup kitchen), and Raphael House (a woman’s shelter). At the soup kitchen, I stood in line, ate food with the homeless, and helped out in the kitchen. Through this, I met some incredible personalities. At Raphael House, I was fortunate that I was able to volunteer there. Since, it was a battered woman’s shelter and I was a man. Nevertheless, I met some amazing women who had one main goal in life, which was their desire to be great mothers. I’m very close to my grandmother, mother, and sisters and saw my emotional journey begin to take over. I realized how grateful I am for family and how blessed we all are in this world. At the end of my journey, I donated over $100,000 to the charities and to 3 individuals with whom I had developed an emotional connection. I also realized deep down inside, even though I am only 26 – that philanthropy is going to be a big part of my future. This show also goes beyond money. The gifting, while it was monetary – the emotional impact was far greater. It helped renew hope in humanity.
At the end of the day, philanthropy is not measured monetarily but based on the time and commitment someone offers. I hope we all continue to do our part and offer a hand. These are hard times in America. At times like these, it is good to help those who have less than you.
For more information about the two charities I mentioned above you can visit:
St. Anthony’s Dining Room: http://www.stanthonysf.org/
Raphael House: http://www.raphaelhouse.org/
Tags: bay area, book, charity, foundation, fox, hollywood, philanthropy, premiere, raphael house, reality tv, san francisco, secret millionaire, st. anthony, television show, tenderloin, the dream, william morris





December 11th, 2008 at 2:57 am
Thanks for mentioning this, I have told everybody in my family few days ago and we are very excited to watch it. People around me been very skeptical about how some one can make money through internet.
I have found myself in that situation where in the company of known persons, when I try explaining about my internet project and noticing they are hardly paying attention. Some time I have felt like they may be making fun of my passion about internet. That the negative enery as I feel every now and then. But as you mentioned in your book, one need to pursue his dream. I will keep dreaming and working towards executing it.
But you success is the reality which I will like to share with all my know persons.
With Regards,
Gurnoor
Elk Grove, CA
December 11th, 2008 at 3:18 am
It looks like your episode will be on next week. The show is truly inspiring and I look forward to seeing your journey.
December 11th, 2008 at 3:50 am
I look forward to watching the show. The most touching show I have seen so far was the show with blonde lawyer and his son. Keep thinking and playing big man. The best way to help the poor is not be one. You INSPIRE THE HECK out my man. My goal next year is to launch my foundation and invest $50,000 of my own personal money into to it. My overall goal will be $100,000 for it.
December 11th, 2008 at 4:24 am
Your giving nature is what keeps success so attracted to you. Thank you for coinciding in my life, at the right time, and for the right reasons. Hope to speak with you soon. =)Good luck with the rest of your press tour and beyond.
-Sarah
December 11th, 2008 at 10:23 am
you are awesome! I can’t imagine what it is like not to worry about money. being able to make other people happy, just like Oprah, God bless you for what you do
December 11th, 2008 at 10:33 am
I can’t wait to watch the show tonight, have seen really good previews of it so far and watched the other 3 episodes as well. I am trying to finish all my house chores early today so that I can just sit back and watch your episode tonight without any distractions. Good luck and thanks for all that you do.
December 11th, 2008 at 10:33 am
Can’t wait to watch the episode tonight. I learned about you from that show and researched who you were when the name sounded Punjabi. WOW! man you are a dream come true.
Good Luck G.
December 11th, 2008 at 10:34 am
You rock man! Chak De Phatey
December 11th, 2008 at 11:51 am
I am counting down the hours until I watch your episode tonight. I am in East coast so I will get to see it before you do in CA. You are truly an inspiration,especially in these tough times. Good luck and wish you best in your future projects.
December 11th, 2008 at 11:58 am
Tonight is gonna be great man. First time to watch a Punjabi guy on prime time TV on truly a positive, inspiring show. You inspire not only anyone who dares to “make a difference” as well as for minorities, that “dreams do come true in America”.
December 11th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Hello Gurbaksh- You are truly an inspiration…a real breath of fresh air.
Your wonderful blend of brains, hard work, and compassion all but guarantee a long and prosperous future for you and all those you impact.
Keep up the great work.
Jack
December 11th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
You make dreams come true…you’re determination and perseverance are amazing…just reading about your challenges and victories motivates me to do more and push harder to reach that ultimate goal and realizing that nothing is ever impossible. Much love to you and good luck with the show!
December 11th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
I started watching the show last night and saw the preview with your episode. I look forward to watching your journey unfold.
December 11th, 2008 at 7:15 pm
You made all Indians proud of what you are and what you are giving back to the community. I hope you would consider doing same stuff in India.
December 11th, 2008 at 7:23 pm
I’m watching you right now and I think what you’re doing is really great. I can’t wait to see who you end up giving the money to!
December 11th, 2008 at 7:34 pm
Hi,
It was very emotional watching you in Secret millionaire today.
I am an Indian and we are proud of you and your family
Keep up the good work
Warm Regards
Raj
December 11th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
I saw the show last night with the Kovacs. Actually, I have wanted to see all of them, but I forget. Now I won’t! I was so touched that there are people out here who have everything, who will go out and spend time with the less fortunate and learn (and remember) about their lives.
It really interested me to see Myles in Watts. I have been there a time or two in my younger years and I was in East Oakland when the riots broke out. I worked in SF many years ago and saw the Tenderloin.
What I have is mine, not a lot, but enough. I am all about family. I would like to think if I were to win the lottery, that, at my age, I could do similiar for the beautiful, caring people like the ones on the show.
You are so fortunate to have spent time with these great people. As young as you are, I can see you doing good things in the future for those who really deserve it.
December 11th, 2008 at 7:41 pm
hey gurbaksh.I just want to say hhow smart you are,and very successful man. i’m so pround of you,as a matter fact I just read about your book.its very inspired me a lot. I’m telling you.its a amazing story.and I look forward to watching your show.
great work.
ty
December 11th, 2008 at 7:50 pm
Thank you for not losing site of what is important…
December 11th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
Truly Inspirational, Good luck in all your future endevours.
December 11th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
Great JOB!
I must say you did a great job on Secret Millionare.
December 11th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
I just wanted to thank you for listing the charities that you worked with. I will be posting them on my blog as well. I hope that your journey continues with these people in your heart.
December 11th, 2008 at 8:22 pm
I was just watching your show a few minutes ago…turned to it by curiosity. I just saw you when you were in the women she…half end of the show. It’s amazing the gift you have of giving. I like the way you look kind of simple and humble at the same time. Keep on helping. God bless you. Merry xmas and a great happy new year.
Agnes
December 11th, 2008 at 8:25 pm
I just finished watching the episode of Secret Millionaire with you in it. Tears in my eyes still. I was happy to see that you were willing to put your faith in those with whom you just met to do right with the money you blessed them with. It seems like their lives will really be affected by your generosity. I am happy to have read your bio to see how far you have come. Smart moves in life and taking chances has seem to brought you far and looks like you are still going quite strong. Determination and passsion will get you to your goal. Im sure many people are curious as to your personal life. All I can say is may you find someone who will love you truly for you. For your hopes dreams ambition passion strengths weakness’. May she love you for your spirit. Your kind heart. Your warmth. Your shyness. Passion. For all that makes you YOU. Gurbaksh Chahal. For whom your parents have named and nurtured and guided. Someone with your heart should be truly loved with honesty and with full spirit. Well. Everyone should be lucky enough to find this love. All I hope is to again see your face and hear of how you may have touched or changed the lives of someone. Maybe even inspre another to help. As god has blessed you and given you the ability. May you continue to do so. I just wanted to thank you. You are an inspiration. May you live long. Peace be with you and your family.
December 11th, 2008 at 8:30 pm
It’s awesome what the more fortunate are doing. If I could I would do the same, love helping out others. You should venture to canada, ontario sometime. Oh and by the way you are very handsome. Thank-you for making a difference in people’s life.
December 11th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
Dear G,
It was A-mazing to see your journey today on FOX. It was great to see you making difference in their lives and give them opportunity to do something better.
I work with public library system as Librarian. I meet this people every day..They want to fill out food stamp application, job applications, free housing- free phone and all other things, which they can’t afford. Even they have no idea about where to start. I try to help them and It is worth seeing their smiling faces when they can put one step further…
I can relate to your feelings during today’s show… Cheers to your good work , You are making difference and giving them new opportunities.
Cheers from one Indian to another!
Love and Good Luck.
December 11th, 2008 at 8:53 pm
hi g!
you’re inspiring in more ways than you knew! i happen to come across the show while on the elliptical at the gym. seeing your pretty face combined with an even better story, turned my 10 minutes into *30*!! thanks bro! then this guy comes and changes the channel on me while i’m watching it!! i wanted to tell him something,(like would normally do!) but i was actually challenged by your…humility to not say anything—ok, i really tried not to say anything, but then my personality took over, and i *did* tell him that he changed the channel i was watching : { it turns out he didn’t know i was watching, and we had a good laugh about it! God bless you brother. Rock on!
December 11th, 2008 at 8:54 pm
With intense humility you’ve given faces and voices to those who once felt invisible. Not only are you a beautiful man, but a beautiful human.
Thank you
December 11th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
great show. All the best with gwallet.
–
Pratik Dhrona
December 11th, 2008 at 9:07 pm
Hey i just got done watching your show, you are truely a great person. It really inspired me to help, my mom teaches at a poverty area school and i decided to help out and buy some christmas presents for the kids. Its not much, but i know it will mean a lot to them. Thank you for opening my eyes, take care and god bless you
December 11th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
Just finished watching your show. It was quite heartening to see the emotional side of Gurbakhsh. It was great to see a fellow Sikh, more than that a big hearted human being portrayed on National Television along with his proud family. May Waheguru keep you in Chardhi Kala to serve the humanity.
December 11th, 2008 at 10:07 pm
Bahm! Watching your episode on tv right now!
Ordered your book last week, can’t wait to read it!
December 11th, 2008 at 10:27 pm
I’ve enjoyed your approach and the sense of perspective on life. I wanted to ask from a business point of view, isn’t it better to teach the guy how to fish instead of feeding him? Perhaps trying to help people get resources in furthering their education and/or job training skills so they can make a living rather than watching their money burn out quickly. Please, don’t feel like I’m criticizing you directly because it’s not criticism, it’s a mere suggestion in actually helping the future lives of the Americans. On the other hand, I really appreciate your kindness and taking things in at a perspective. I wish you the best!
December 11th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
I can;t find the words to express how wonderful it was to watch your show.
And echoing another on how great is is to see another Sikh on national television.
WJKK WJKF
December 11th, 2008 at 10:39 pm
Amazing show! My emotions were stirring the entire show. You have changed many lives and the awesome looks on their faces is still in my mind!
Great work!
Rhonda
December 11th, 2008 at 10:43 pm
I am watching your episode RIGHT now. G, this is fantastic. This show will open eyes. I am forever saying how people like Paris Hilton are wasting their lives away, why not help others, and here you are doing it. It restores my faith in humanity. There is enough for everyone to go around. I have lofty goals for myself, and I hope I am in the position some day to help others as you are. Bless you.
December 11th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
Just finished watching your show.you make dream come true. helping people who need u . you rock u showed them some people help people for no resson they just wanna help. you r great . sat sri akal
December 11th, 2008 at 10:52 pm
I am watching the show right now.You are in the kitchen revealing your identity and handing over the check.
Awesome example, and lots to learn. Keep it up, and very proud of you!
December 11th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
You are amazing. You need to be the next Bachelor…….
December 11th, 2008 at 11:06 pm
Gurbaksh, you are a proud son of Sri Amritsar Sahib. We saw you on TV today, my wife and I were glued to the TV to learn about you and your success. May Guru Ram Dass bless you more.
December 11th, 2008 at 11:09 pm
I just saw the show .. Its a very noble gesture to donate to the people who need it the most.. And this episode was really touching. In your blog you mentioned that you donated over $100,000 to the charities and 3 individuals. But the episode showed you donating only $90,000. Did the show not show all the people you helped?
December 11th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
You are truly a wonderful person. Your episode along with the one I watched the previous week where the couple gave away over $300,000 is not only awesome but brought tears to my eyes. I dream of the day where I could afford to give a large some of money to the sick kids foundation a charity very close to my heart for many reasons. Thank you. Happy Holidays to you and your family.
December 11th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
Hi Gurbaksh,
I didn’t know your episode was on today. I was channel surfing and saw it and was really touched by what I saw. I could relate to what you were going through. I have gone through a lot myself in my life but try to put my personal problems aside and help out as many people I can. I try to be happy with what I got and pray to God that HE give me the strength and ability to help others.I struggle within because there is only some much I can do and there is a lot to be done.There are many people that deserve a second chance.
I hope that your show inspires others in this hard times to reach out and help each other. God bless you and all of us.
December 11th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
Dear G;
It was truly moving to watch you on the show. You have such an inspiring light in your eyes. You have a great soul and are an amazing person for doing what you did for all of those deserving people. I like how you mentioned in the blog above of your own personal experience from where you and your family started. Your book will be read cover to cover. Thank you G. There should be more people in the world who are as giving as you are. God bless you and your family!
December 11th, 2008 at 11:30 pm
Hey G,
I watched the show tonight. It was great! Its amazing how a financial gift like that can truly change someone’s life…and your own! “Better it is to give than receive.” I appreciate your generosity, and I’m about to read your book (I’m a budding entrepreneur myself), so I believe your story will offer some inspiration. Thanks again.
-Aaron H.
Edit your post:
Hey G, I watched the show tonight. It was great! Its amazing how a financial gift like that can truly change someone’s life…and your own! “Better it is to give than receive.” I appreciate your generosity, and I’m about to read your book (I’m a budding entrepreneur myself), so I believe your story will offer some inspiration. Thanks again.
December 11th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
Watched your episode of SM tonight, you were fantastic and seemed so down to earth. You seemed very generous and kind towards the people you met and the charities you supported. May you continue to be successful and spread your enthusiasm for life and helping those who are less fortunate. God Bless you and your family.
December 11th, 2008 at 11:54 pm
I just turned on my TV and watched the show, mostly time I ingnored it but today I could not change it because there was a guy like you who is telling something. After watched the show I eager to know about you. Now I know about you.
It was quite heartening to see the emotional side of Gurbakhsh G .. WELL DONE AND GOOD LUCK
December 12th, 2008 at 12:13 am
Wow, I was taken back by the emotions I felt as I saw you experience the lives of others as they touched your heart. I wonder what changes you made in the lives and direction some of the peoples lives were going. I hope you continue with other opportunities to enrich and touch lives. The best to you.
December 12th, 2008 at 12:57 am
I just finished watching your show! It was so emotional!
I agree with you “G” its feels so good to give than to receive! That feeling is so rewarding! Good for you! May God keep all the doors open for you! And many more open doors to come!!
Jessica
December 12th, 2008 at 9:40 am
I watched the show last night and it was quite inspiring. I think everyone can learn from this experience. It’s not how much you have, it’s what inside of you counts the most and the smallest thing you can say or do would mean the most.
The show has touched me and it has inspired me to go the extra not just because of the holiday that’s coming, but because I know it’ll make a difference in someone’s life each and every day. All priceless.
Eva
December 12th, 2008 at 9:56 am
Gurbaksh,
You truly are an inspiration and an amazing personality.
Guys like you make me proud to be an Indian – Thank you for being who you are…and I really hope your actions will inspire millions more – not just with the giving away of $’s but the care & emotions you you shared which is the foundation of hope for another
Best of luck in ALL your endeavors!!
~Sweta
December 12th, 2008 at 10:00 am
You were amazing brother…You make us “Punjabi” proud.
December 12th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
Last nit, It’s truly inspired and touching. Wow I can’t believe someone who is 26 year old can make people smile or made difference in their life. I look forward to watching more episode of the show. The most touching show I ever watch. You are really a true hero to those people who you helped, really awesome. I like your policy, being able to make other people happy. Keep up the good work G, Good Luck in your future projects.
Ram Krishna
December 12th, 2008 at 4:51 pm
G- Why did Fox not show everyone that you gave a check to?
December 12th, 2008 at 5:44 pm
Great show. . . and in my city! It was actually so nice to be reminded that right here in the place I live are so many opportunities to pitch in and be a part of community, so I really appreciate being reminded of that through your journey.
Bad on Fox though for short changing you. They really need to make that right. I have seen other people blogging about the 10k short issue in the show. They certainly should have clarified that somehow.
Congratulations on all the work you are doing. You should take some real time off though. You seemed to enjoy being a part of the mix on the show.
Best of luck to you
December 12th, 2008 at 8:20 pm
G’…You are definitely an inspiration and you have truly motivated to put a foot forward to begin working on keeping my dreams alive and eventually be at a position where I can the change the minds and hearts of others. I would love to share an idea that I strongly believe would allow me the opportunity to change the lives of others. I have done extensive research and I have yet to come across anything quite like this. I am a believer and would hope you take a few minutes of your life to hear me out….once again G’…my blessings goes out to your and your love ones ! have a beautiful Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!
December 12th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
Hi
we sat down with our mom and watched seceret millionair and thought it was wonderfull I even told my teacher to watch it and he thought it was also great he tought it was touching when you and nirmal sat down and cried even he got emotinol as well when I grow up I want to be just like you.
-simran{age 10}
December 14th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
I’ve been waiting for months to see this show and it did not disappoint! I hope to see more if you in the future, You really need your own reality tv show!
Can’t wait to see what is to come!
~Kenzi~
December 16th, 2008 at 6:37 pm
I see myself in so many of the people that have been helped.Hard times happen to everyone.People are very strong when they have hope.No one and nothing is to blame for what life throws at you.If I ever have more money then I need I will give way more then just a coat or some baked goods to help others.
I just love the show. I am not rich nor am I in a emotionally stable situation but I still have my hope and knowing things do work out before the end. This show takes me away from what is wrong in my life and gives me that feeling in my heart we all need when people are selfless.It is not just a show it is a blessing to the people it helps.
December 18th, 2008 at 8:59 am
I came to know about the show, when my American colleague told me about you, and I told him about Sikhs. Thank you for doing good work.
December 19th, 2008 at 9:37 am
if you every have need for anything in dallas forthworth texas. it would be an honor to help.
December 26th, 2008 at 4:48 am
G,
I looked forward to TSM before it premiered, as I have always been drawn to shows that make a difference. Having now watched the first 6 episodes, I can say that your episode was my favorite. Perhaps because I saw a lot of myself in you — your calculated discernment with whom, how, and how much you chose to disperse your giving, not to mention the fact that you were a single, young entrepreneur, and most closely related to my age out of the 6 millionaires.
Then I stumbled upon your blog and read about your desire to “develop reality-based television shows that could inspire people”. Bam! I may have found my match. This spoke to me, as I have always hoped to incorporate my interests in entrepreneurship, entertainment and philanthropy. My desire in life is to leave a legacy that will inspire people to work for the betterment of others. I feel an obligation to humanity that stretches beyond the borders of the U.S. As hard as many of our fellow Americans may have it, I can only imagine how it fails in comparison to what others around the world have to face.
Should circumstances arise for us to meet some day, I would love to work with you — whether it be in entertainment or another business venture, development or strictly funding. Please keep my info handy, and best in all your endeavors. I could not find your email, so I hope this reaches you.
January 20th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Dear G,
I just wanted to say thank you for inspiring me to volunteer at the Raphael House.
I was a young mother at 17, have struggled to take care of my children, and would like to work with young mothers and struggling families, so that maybe they can benefit from my success as a young mother and now a mother of three.
I can’t wait to share with them that, just because you come across struggles in your life, doesn’t mean you always will and that struggle is not about getting through, it’s about learning what you’ve gone through (hope that makes sense).
So thanks again for the inspiration.
Take care and never forget where you come from, while you’re traveling to where you want to go.
February 10th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Hi
Gurbax I’m a newcomer from India to Canada and I’m from “Khilchian”in Amritsar distt.I saw your interview with Oprah winfrey,there is no doubt you have done a great job and at the same time we are really proud of you.May God bless you and you acheive whatever your desires are.
Rimple Dhunna
February 27th, 2009 at 6:22 am
Hi
Im from south Africa and have recently started to work on my own. I also saw your interview with oprah and am completely inspired and impressed with what you have done with yout life in such a short space of time. So thanks!
December 21st, 2009 at 3:04 pm
I normally scroll through different channels when I’m relaxing and I saw the show secret millionare. It brought tears to my eyes to see that there are still some good people left in this world and can help people in needs. God bless you and hope you come to my state. We need more people like you out there in this world today, who can help not make war.
January 19th, 2010 at 12:24 pm
Mr. Chahal,
The first time i saw Secret Millionaire, i cried. Of all the greed many of us have seen, we get the wrong impression that the wealthy are looters. This feeling is very prevalent among the poor and middle class. But, after seeing this, I admire you greatly for your ability to remember your roots. Bravo