Annu calls Idol contestant 'cockroach'

When we spoke to Annu and asked him why he attacked Suhit, he put up a rather interesting explanation. "I said he is like a cockroach because they can survive nuclear attacks. Suhit came back in the competition and he is in the danger zone. Still, he has not lost hope. I just wanted to tell him that 'Himmat Hai Marda Toh Madad De Khuda.' I did not want to say anything bad about him."

He also denied that Suhit was upset with what he said. "We just laughed at the comment. And in any case, he is from the new generation which is very intelligent and understanding. This is just a beginning for him. I am sure he will prove himself one day. He has a beautiful voice. I love him and that is why I called him that."

Praising Suhit further, Maliek says, "He is not an outstanding singer but has got a positive attitude and I like his style - he wears jeans in a different manner and uses black nail polish. I know people will surely like him. If within two years, he learns what needs to be learnt, he will be a rock star. His voice is suitable to the rock, lounge type of music and his attitude reminds me of my childhood days. He has that ada in him."

So how did the co-judges react to Maliek's statement? "They all know that I express my opinion clearly. So they were not shocked. Now the decision is the viewers', whether they want to keep him or not."

Suhit himself was not available for comment.

Indian Idol airs every Friday and Saturday at 9 pm. Apart from Annu, the other judges of the show are Alisha Chenai, Udit Narayan and Javed Akhtar.

Monday, June 25, 2007