Monali Thakur, recipient of Filmfare award for songs like Moh moh ke dhage and Sawaar loon, talks to Rachita Malhotra about her Rising Stars on Colors
How is Rising Stars different from other singing reality showsIJ
We are moving so fast in the digital world. It’s a first singing reality show in India which is going to be live on TV and mobile app every Saturday and Sunday at 9pm. This will give the audience a feel of watching a live concert of the participants. Their performances will be directly validated by the audience who can vote for their favourite participant on the app which is different and unique from other reality shows.
What will be your judging criteriaIJ
I’m just an expert and not calling myself a judge on this show. Diljit Dosanjh, Shankar Mahadevan and I will have only seven per cent of voting rights — 21 per cent from the three of us. My job is to motivate the participants to bring out the best in them. I want to be their friend; I don’t want to make it like a competition.
What talent pool are you expectingIJ
This is going to be diverse. We have people from ages of six to 60. We can have one person performing; two people performing duet or may be three and there can be a band as well. Different genres and sounds will be heard on the show.
There reason why winners of reality shows are unable to sustain themselves for long in the industry.
It is completely based on how an individual would like to take their talent forward. Reality shows provide a platform to them but what they do after that is up to them. There are contestants who choose to completely diverge from their music career, and that’s their personal choice.
How far do reality shows help a contestant to make their place in the industryIJ
It definitely provides them with a platform to showcase their skills. You don’t get a chance otherwise to sing in front of so many veteran singers and composers. And this experience is very important for musicians to grow.
What factors one should keep in mind to sustain themselves in the industryIJ
One has to be passionate and dedicated in music. You have to be the best out there. Till the time you deliver best or at least try to, things will fall in place. Also a lot of patience is required to get that first break and make a mark in the industry. It’s not a cakewalk.