In the end, it does come down to being a popularity contest. Fanbases are already pretty determined and there are likely going to be very few shifts here on. Charu was never going to win Idol, and the problem with Parleen was that he had an already weak base, and he didn't know exactly what to offer them. Now if he had played intelligently and chosen ballads, which are his forte, he would 've made it, as song choices like "Challi Challi" did anything but solidify his fanbase. At this point everyone remaining has had at least one instance where somebody has proclaimed them as worthy of the Indian Idol title. Now the real competition is going to start, and just like Sandeep's strong, relentless fanbase last year, Prashant may find it very comfortable to make it to the Top without ever landing in the Bottom. The thing is that now you have to perform to make people love you, not just like you. If they love you, they may vote upto 20 times for you. If they just like you, they may throw in a coupla votes in your direction. As is the case, 10 likes = 1 love so contestants really need to give their fanbases exactly what they want. No more risktaking.
