At the launch of Star network’s new singing reality show, judge and filmmaker Karan Johar explains why he is still wary of the gush about digital platforms and won’t join the bandwagon anytime soon. Team Viva reports
From belting out jokes, taking digs, sizing up reality shows and comparing notes, the judges of a new singing reality show had something to say on just about everything under the sun. And by the end of the talkathon, we discovered the show is not just about singing but to present oneself as a complete package for the audience.
With the growing popularity of music reality shows, every channel is trying its hand at projecting a certain sales pitch. The latest concept of Star Plus’ Dil Hai Hindustani will have people from across the globe participating in a singathon of solos, duos, trios, bands or groups. Budding singers from five to 50 will be given a chance to sign up. Although the doors will be open for international artistes, only Hindi songs will be allowed to be performed. “There are people in Ukraine, China and Germany who can sing our songs so well. This show will bring such talented people on stage. A lot of desi talent has come from viral sensations,” said Karan Johar, who is one of the judges for the show. “I will check for the X factor in the contestants,” he added.
“It is relevant to be aware of what is happening around us and scout talent. We sometimes don’t realise that there is a cult following online talent. And I get amazed to see such a volume of talent in our country,” the filmmaker, who likes to be with-it, said. KJo told us that he came across many “online sensations”, when he along with other judges, composer-singer Shekhar Ravjiani, singer Shalmali Kholgade and rapper Badshah, were on a search mission.
Badshah, who himself is a product of YouTube, said, “The digital platform has given limelight to common people who needed to be discovered.” But Johar maintained a perfect balance, saying, “The country might be exploring the digital platform but I want to maintain a distance and venture into internet only when I feel it is immensely required.”
The Ae Dil Hai Mushkil director believes there is a flip side to the online platform too as it becomes more of an excuse for people to present to the audience “bad scripts” which failed to make the cut for the big screen. “As a producer I wouldn’t enter the digital platform at the moment. I don’t think I would want to be an early bird. Whosoever is not able to make films is working on web series or a digital show. Digital is a very powerful platform. It is a growing kid and if that kid grows more, it can even eat films up. I am scared as this has a huge possibility. Once it does, I will also
join the bandwagon. I am anyway an opportunist,” the filmmaker
elaborated.