In a first of its kind event, Doordarshan and Spic Macay (Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) are jointly organising a nationwide reality show in classical music.
The show titled Naad Bhed (mystery of sound) will be judged in both Hindustani classical and Carnatic music across three categories: vocal, instrumental and accompanists. The basic idea behind this is to garner respect for Indian classical music, inspire the youth to follow its great tradition, and encourage and reward the best practitioner among them. State Coordinator Spic Macay and Principal Secretary to Governor NN Sinha said, “There is tremendous popularity for music reality shows on entertainment channels today but only in western music. We thought to give something similar to promote Indian classical music, the one thing India is known for across the world.”
“Through reality show we will take classical music to the masses and give them a sense of pride to those learning classical music,” added Sinha. The format includes selection process across India through competitive audition in all the 20 regional DD kendras. Anyone who is learning Indian classical music is eligible to participate with the maximum age of 26 years. The participants are required to have a formal training in Indian classical for a minimum of four years to qualify the auditions.
Assistant Director Doordarshan PK Sinha said, “From Jharkhand we have as many as 46 applicants, audition will be held at two levels which is scheduled to from September 1 to 5. Out of 46 applicants 24 will be selected for regional round. Thereafter, five participants will be making for semi final round, which will be held in Mumbai.” The winner of this show will be rewarded a cash prize of Rs 10,00,000 while other participants will be given Rs 3,00,000 each. The show will be anchored by the Bollywood actress Shabana Azmi.
Deputy Director Doordarshan,Chandra Sekhar said, “The show will be judged by the well-known maestro of different instruments.” Meanwhile Doordarshan will also start a Digital Terrestrial Transmission in which along with Doordarshan some private channels will also be broadcasted.