Promising politician, eh?-Lallo..

Who says politicians don't have a heart? Railway Minister Laloo Prasad Yadav showed that he had a heart of gold (or at least made a good show of it) when he promised Sa Re Ga Ma Pa contestant Poonam Jadhav, who comes from a very poor family, a job in the Indian Railways.

Great gesture

The episode featuring Yadav as the show's chief guest was telecast on Sunday but the promise he made was deleted from the final cut. Says an eyewitness, "Laloo could have played to the gallery and made his promise in front of the camera, but he really felt sorry for Poonam. Without making much noise, he promised to give her a job in private."

The source adds that the girl was in tears when Laloo said, "If something doesn't work out here, don't worry. I will see to it that you get a job in the Indian Railways."

Zee's senior vice president, Ashish Kaul, confirms the episode. "I think it was a great gesture. Such an impromptu and candid decision deserves praise," he says.

Kaul adds that he was extremely impressed by Laloo's involvement in the show. "He gives off an air of indifference, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Mr Yadav did a background check on all contestants before he came to the set. His wife Rabri Devi (who watches the show regularly) had told him about Poonam," says Kaul.

Juggling act

Meanwhile, Poonam is overwhelmed by Laloo's gesture. "It will be great if Lalooji can arrange a job for me. It will make my life easy. Then, I'll juggle between singing and office," she says, on a confident note.

Poonam is from Lucknow. Her father died before she was born and her mother works as a domestic help to keep the family going. Those who would like to help Poonam with small contributions can contact her on 9820254989 or 9322595479. Zee TV has provided her both phones and will take them back once Sa Re Ga Ma Pa ends. So let's hope Laloo keeps up his promise!