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| Himani to host 'Antakshari' | |
| Usha Thomas | |
| The Challenge 2005 contestant will host the new song-based show After fourteen years of 'Antakshari'(Zee) being made by the channel's in-house director Gajendrra Siingh, the show and the director are on its way to making fresh beginnings. While, Gajendrra has moved on to start his own production house, Zee will have a new season of Antakshari with a new director, G.N. Shirsha. The show is slated to begin from the last week of December and is slotted for 8.30 pm on Fridays. Singer and Challenge 2005 contestant Himani Kapoor has been selected as the female host. Delighted at the development, Himani says, "I was initially not sure if I should do this show, as I didn't want my singing career to suffer but I later realised that it's an honour to be selected for such a frontrunner show." The channel is tight-lipped about details of the format but, according to sources, it will bring many new twists. Rohit Roy, Annu Kapoor and Sunil Pal are in consideration for the role of the male host. Annu Kapoor has been associated with 'Antakshari' from its early days. It is to be seen whether he will be brought back as the show as he seemed like a bone of contention between the channel and the director. The show was taken off for two years, as Gajendrra wanted Annu to continue as the host while the channel thought the younger audience doesn't relate to him. According to sources, Sunil Pal has the best chances of winning the race. Funny man Sunil is also known for his singing abilities. Ashish Kaul, Sr.V.P., Zee Telefilms says, "Even when television in India was still young, 'Antakshari' would get TVR of 74 but now such figures remain a dream. Our aim has always been to build communities around the programme and this show is also a huge success with Indian audiences abroad." Ashish says the show will be directed by an in-house team." But apparently the channel wants G. N. Shirsha, hitherto a director of photography, to lead the team. Confirming the news, Shirsha says, "Yes, I am at the helm of the new 'Antakshari' directorial team, but it is too early to reveal more." Gajendrra Siingh however, has no regrets. He says, "I wish the show and channel all the best." About his own programmes, he says, "I am in talks with different people but nothing has been finalised." t_usha@dnaindia.net sorry if posted earlierđł | |
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