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The Hindu : It began less than five years ago, when the nation watched and marvelled at scores of young people putting their life on hold for their 15 minutes of fame on Channel [V] Popstars. And one could almost hear mothers clicking tongues at youngsters wasting their life on something as fickle as fame.

India now seems to have taken wholeheartedly to reality television as millions SMS their verdicts on the eager hopefuls. And with the rise in share in the profit pie, reality TV is working harder to catch its talent as early as possible. In the last couple of years, the new demographic of participants has been children in the age group of eight and 14, doing everything from singing and dancing to matching precocious intellects to auditioning for a role in films.

Currently on telly is “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs”, hosted by Aditya Narayan and judged by Sonu Nigam and Suresh Wadkar. And there will soon be Star Plus’s “Voice of India Chotte Ustaad” with Shreya Ghoshal, Kunal Ganjawala and Pritam for judges. Even many regional channels have jumped onto the contest bandwagon with their own versions of singing and dancing shows for children.

The most common rationale offered is that the country’s undiscovered stars deserve an opportunity to showcase their talent. Thus, says Sonu Nigam: “This is the age where children will go far if they are given the right inspiration. This competition helps them know where they stand, know what their strengths are.” Certainly, it is a persuasive argument. After all, as Surendra Nath S, Executive Producer of ETV (currently hosting the juniors’ version of “Yedhe Thumbi Haaduvenu”) asks: “What is the point of learning music or any other performing art if it is not being exhibited?” In a country where visibility is such a challenge, what better way to bring out young talent than on a national platform?…More