His fans span countries and are an interesting mix of soap-devoted ladies, the college-going clan, and even kids as young as three who call him Sumit uncle (referring to his character in Kumkum). Whether a fan or not, one can't deny the energy, fun, and genuine warmth that Hussain brings to the show. Excerpts from a chat with the busy actor-presenter.
This week will see the new Indian Idol being declared. Who do you think deserves to win?
I think both the finalists are good, but if I had to pick one, it would definitely be Amit. I've always maintained that from the start.
When were you offered Indian Idol 3?
That was around the time I had finished Nach Baliye. I've always liked the show and was excited to take up the offer—more so because it revolved around music.
You've hosted a myriad shows. Was there anything different about hosting this one?
In Indian Idol, you see the complete journey of a performer, like in the case of Amit Paul and Prashant Tamang. You see the step- by-step growth in their performances and their personalities. Before the show actually begins, you travel all over the country and see aspirants in small towns and big. Every time they are selected for the next round of auditions, they heave a sigh of relief and thank God.
It must be hard having to see the rejection of hundreds of hopefuls?
You do feel bad because you can see the dreams in their eyes. But at that point of time, you don't have any emotional bonding with them. There is more emotional attachment to the 10-15 that are short listed because you see their journey on a day-to-day basis. You feel more when one of them gets voted out.
If you could bring back one voted-out contestant, who would that be?
I think Emon. He was really good and deserved to be in the finals. He was the heart of the show. His smile was contagious, even off-screen.
Of the four, which judge makes the most accurate observations?
I don't have any favourites as such. I think Anu Maliik is very good at judging music sense and Javed Akhtar is good with descriptions and pointing out where the faults are. Uditji and Alisha are great at giving an overall comment on the performance.
You've oscillated between acting and presenting. Where are you more comfortable?
Acting, definitely. I enjoy it more.
What do your fans have to say about your hosting Indian Idol 3?
I don't know, I would much rather concentrate on my work. My wife Tina, who's a fashion designer, keeps checking out fans' reactions on the Internet and updates me on the interesting things that are being said.
What's on in your professional life; any new shows? Yes, actually. I'll be presenting a new reality show. I can't divulge too many details about it now, but you'll know more in a few days.
Any filmi aspirations?
Yes, I think everybody wants to do films, but it's all about finding the right opportunity. Frankly, I've been offered some decent stuff off late, but I've not been able to pick it up due to some time issues. But who knows, maybe in the future.
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