ORE than a decade after Meri Awaz Suno was launched in the country, music reality shows continue to strike a chord with viewers.
Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar, on Star Plus, is no different and its second season is a mix of 18 contestants, including six champions and 12 runnersup from other reality shows like Indian Idol and Voice of India.
The show sees them divided in two groups—Challengers and Champions—and mentored by singer Shaan and composer Shantanu Moitra respectively.
The mentors will be joined by lyricist Swanand Kirkire and the host, TV personality, Mandira Bedi.
We caught up with Shaan who is returning to the small screen after a two-year break, to find out more about the show: I had taken a sabbatical from television for two years as reality shows have not been able to convert the winners into mainstream singers.
But all of them are unique.
I want to train and groom them into contemporary singers, which is fun and challenging.
The show has no ridiculous songs or judges poking fun at the singers.
As a host, I have witnessed this and it is not justified.
Besides, the artistes here are of a certain stature.
I have known Shantanu (Moitra) and am happy that he is part of the show.
Adding a twist to the same old songs heightens anticipation.
The audience will wonder, ‘what will happen next?’ So I have added original renditions to bring out that magical effect.
I have seen these singers grow up.
When Sanchita Bhattacharya (winner of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Little Champs) won, she was 14, now she’s 21.
I have known Aneek Dhar (winner of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007) for four years.
My favourites keep changing with every episode (laughs).
I have shot for just four episodes.
So it is too early to comment on who is the most promising and consistent singer.
In the movies, I have sung Do You Know in Housefull 2 and other songs in Ferrari ki Sawari, Teri Meri Kahani and It’s My Life.
Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar airs every weekend on Star Plus at 9 pm.