Article: Hostess with the mostest

When a noodle-strapped Mandira Bedi entered the frame of cricket commentary, she ended up drawing more attention to herself than the actual tournament. In spite of her limited knowledge of the game three years ago, she became an overnight success. So is television hosting just about being a pretty face? Apparently not, say most of them.

"You have to use all your faculties when you are hosting a show. Some of the shows are live and there are no chances for a retake. You also have to have the presence of mind to be able to interact with the audience," says Mandira. She further adds, "I think the most difficult show to host was 'Deal Ya No Deal'. I had to undergo training and do several rehearsals before the final show." Admitting that she has refused certain shows because all that was required was reading from the teleprompter. "You do not get to explore your potential as a host," she says.

Simone Singh, who sits pretty on 'Kosmiic Chat' (Zoom) and has limited interaction with the celebs says, "The new format of the show is very different. Since I know Sunita (Menon) for two years now, we are in a comfort zone. We will be discussing different subjects and my participation will be much more than just sitting pretty." Ask her whether a glam look is enough to host a show and she retorts, "You have to have an engaging personality to be a good host."

Mini Mathur, who's been a VJ and a host for several years, believes that it's an unfair assumption to believe that there's no hard work involved in hosting shows. "Of course, it helps the show if you are pleasant looking. If this wasn't true, then why would Upen Patel host a show?" However, she is quick to add, "But there are a few new entrants who do nothing much than read from the teleprompter. To be a good host you have to be spontaneous and connect with the audience."

Mini is also of the opinion that television hosting needs to go beyond a certain level. "I am waiting for something like the Oprah Winfrey show to happen here. But as of now, you can only expect Simi Garewal to host a signature show. You need experience and the ability to build a rapport to host a show like that," she sums up.