‘Chhote Ustaad’ on Star Plus uniting India And Pakistan - With Omi Vaidya

Raahat Fateh Ali Khan and Sonu Niigaam

The ground realities speak of hostilities, but when it comes to art, India and Pakistan have never shied away from sharing the same stage. Cultural exchange between the two countries was stopped in the aftermath of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. Though our wounds haven’t healed yet, but the acrimony towards the civil population of Pakistan has receded.

India has once again opened its door for Pakistani artists, some of whom are making their presence felt on Indian TV again. Prominent among them is the much-celebrated Sufi and Bollywood singer Raahat Fateh Ali Khan. The Pakistani artist will soon be seen adjudicating Star Plus reality show ‘Chhote Ustaad – Do Deshon Ki Ek Awaaz’. Giving him company is our very own Sonu Niigaam, who returns to TV after three years. The other star attraction of the show is host Omi Vaidya, a.k.a Chatur Ramalingam of 3 Idiots fame.

‘Chhote Ustaad’ goes on air from July 24, and will air every Saturday and Sunday at 9.00 pm. The show sees a change in format this time with the contest fought between 10 pairs – each comprising of an Indian and Pakistan child. All contestants are in the age group of 8–14.

Speaking on the launch, Star Plus creative director Monika Shergill, said, “‘Chhote Ustaad – Do Deshon Ki Ek Awaaz’ is the coming together of lot of things. Prominent among them is spreading the message of peace through singing’.

Both Niigaam and Khan echoed similar sentiments. The erstwhile singers will be seen on television again after a gap of few years. When asked about this long hiatus, both claimed that they were regularly offered reality shows, but it’s the noble concept of ‘Chhote Ustaad’ that made them agree to it.

Omi Vaidya remained quiet for most of the evening as most questions were aimed at the two judges.