Best versions of Layi Vi Na Gayi from Indian Idol seasons

This is a tough song to perform, because not only does it require exceptional mechanical execution, it also relies heavily on connecting with audiences throughout the different levels within the song. Here are my favorite versions performed within Indian Idol:

1. Karunya (season 2): One of the most talented singers to ever be on the show. Hindi wasn’t his native language yet was always exceptional. Infamously didn’t win his season (lost to Sandeep).

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bKTHg9lV4W0

2. Parleen Gill (season 6): Not as talented as Karunya and Arunita, but was a memorable performance due to its context (unexpected elimination, various strong friendships with other contestants, memorable personality) and gravity of the moment.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0LASCoDTJNY

3. Arunita: Sang it brilliantly, especially with it not being a song in her usual style. The only constructive criticism I could point out is that as talented as she is, sometimes her emotional connect feels a bit lacking and can seem more mechanical (compared to the all time greats of this show). But given her age, that will come more fluidly with experience and time. Overall, a wonderful performance.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=plKY5vpwtXY

No one can beat Parleen

I remember everyone crying during his performance and elimination. Including me and my family. They have never cried like this during ANY performance😭

RIP Sandeep Acharya but Karunya was the rightful winner that season due to his versatility

Parleen was up against a bunch of heavy hitters that season (Amit Paul, Emon, Prashant, Chang). Plus Indian Idol back then was known for having at least one shocking elimination each season before it became all about the judges choosing the winner.

Arunita version stands out to me the most mostly because of how she nails it even though the genre isn't even catered to her style of singing.

However I admire all 3 versions of the song.

I am still sad about Karunya not getting the fame he deserved

Agree to all 3 and the order. Karunya's Layi vi na gay was the reason I started to watch Indian Idol. I somehow didn't have good opinion of reality shows till then and never watched season 1. While switching channels, I came to Indian Idol when he just started to sing. And I was hooked.

Nihal is too much of an up and down singer imo but he has had success in the Kannada industry I have heard. Himesh typically gives only 1 or 2 songs to contestants from what I have seen. The whole Pawandeep 10 song thing seemed bogus haha. I still feel his rendition of Shukrah Allah was lazy and lacking but then again he was walking in the footsteps of Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghosal, and Salim Merchant. I liked Arunita better than SMP, Anjali, and Sayli on Sunday.