He came, he spoke, and he conquered, against all odds. Aditya Narayan has become a favourite with the audience of 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007', and he has hung on, despite all criticism. We ask him how it feels, now that the show is coming to an end.
Q. What was it like, growing up as a famous singer's son?
A. It was great. Both my parents are singers, and my understanding of music began when I was a year old. I ate music, I slept music, and I am proud of that.
Q. 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa' is a very successful show, and this is your first time as an anchor. How do you feel about it?
A. I had to fit into Shaan's shoes, and that was a challenge. There were a lot of expectations. I worked hard, so that nobody got a chance to complain. Before hosting the show, I knew that I would not become an extraordinary anchor, but I also knew that I could be good.
Q. Was it your own decision to become a singer? Or did your parents want you to become one?
A. I was never forced into singing. It came to me naturally. Singing is in my genes.
Q. You have a diploma in contemporary English music. You seem to have more on your mind?
A. Yes, I do. You just wait and watch.
Q. Have you noticed any changes in yourself since you began anchoring this show? Do you still get nervous?
A. I was never nervous. I think hosting is my biggest strength. I used to fumble and forget lines earlier, but I have become very confident now.
Q. What do you think contributes to the success of the show?
A. There is more than one reason. Each and every person involved in the show has given it their best – from the director to the producer, to each member of the unit.
Q. What is your equation with the judges and the contestants?
A. Great. They have been a constant source of encouragement for me, and I would really like to thank everyone related to the show – they were with me every time I needed them.
Q. You have received proposals, and contestants have even kissed you. Are you considering any?
A. No, no, no! It is my work that gets the appreciation and love, not me.
Q. You have worked hard to maintain a certain look on the show as well. Any inspiration?
A. I am inspired by hard work. I work out, I eat healthy, and I even go for facials, manicures and pedicures. I am a complete foodie, but every time I overeat, I work out extra. Looking good has become part of my lifestyle.
Q. How have your friends reacted to the new you? Do you give them tips?
A. My friends are with me whenever I have some free time. They are all aware of my style funda. I experiment a lot with my clothes, from suits to jeans, etc.
Q. Your father is a judge on 'Indian Idol 3' and you host a similar show on a rival channel. Do you discuss things related to the two shows, when you are at home?
A. I know my show is the best, although I do not say this to him. Jokes apart, we discuss the shows at home, in detail.
Q. Who is your favourite contestant, and who do you think should win the show?
A. All of them are fantastic. The person who deserves to win, will be the winner.
Q. After this show, will we see you as a singer or as an actor? Or do you want to be successful at both?
A. I wanted to be a wrestler, but things did not work out. Now I want to be not only a successful singer, musician and actor, but anything that is related to the entertainment industry.
Q. You had played Salman Khan's son in a movie. What was it like, sharing the stage with him as a host?
A. He was very surprised to see me, as I am now all grown up. We relived some moments of those days.
Q. Your best friend, Mauli Dave, is out of the show. Are you still in touch with her?
A. I am, since she is in Mumbai, and plans to be here for some time. I never understood why all those rumours floated around.
Q. Any messages for your fans? Especially your female fans?
A. I would want to thank everyone for all the love and support that they have given me. They have accepted me as I am, and for that, I am really thankful. - Anju Gupta
