DID Li'l Masters of Zee TV hits the top of reality shows

Early this month, the three general entertainment channels - Zee TV, Colors and STAR Plus - rolled out dance-based reality shows - Dance India Dance (DID) Li'l Masters, Chak Dhoom Dhoom and Zara Nach Ke Dikha, respectively. Of the three, it is Zee TV's offering, DID Li'l Masters, which has hit bull's eye.

As per TAM data, C&S 4+, HSM, DID Li'l Masters recorded an opening TVR of 6.7. In the opening week, while Chak Dhoom Dhoom Chhote Dancers Badi Jung on Colors recorded a TVR of 4.39; Zara Nach Ke Dikha on STAR Plus recorded a TVR of 2.37.

Also, as per the latest TAM data for Week 19, DID Li'l Masters has maintained its lead over the other two dance reality shows, by registering a TVR of 3.2. In comparison, Chak Dhoom Dhoom has managed a TVR of 2.35; while Zara Nach Ke Dikha has a TVR of 2.81.

The ratings are no surprise to media observers, who point out that DID Li'l Masters was expected to be the frontrunner amongst the three offerings.

According to Hema Malik, general manager, Lodestar UM, "Calculated and realistic expectation indicated the success of DID Li'l Masters right from the beginning. Traditionally, for Zee TV, its weekend slot has been the strongest across all genres. It has ruled the 9:30 pm slot with shows such as Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, and the original version of DID. The channel owns this slot; hence, its domination is no surprise."

For Colors, on the other hand, the weekend slot of 9:30 pm hasn't exactly been a ratings-grabber, where reality shows are concerned. Before Chak Dhoom Dhoom, the star-studded National Bingo Night, hosted by Abhishek Bachchan, was aired in the same slot. The show failed to live up to its pre-launch hype, and didn't achieve much on the ratings front either.

Zee TV also made a smart move, by rolling out DID Li'l Masters immediately after the conclusion of its popular Season 2 of DID, which featured adult participants. Zee's strategy denied competing channels, including Colors and STAR Plus, any room to take the first mover advantage in capturing audiences on the weekend slot.

Malik points out that if your regular audiences know that their high dose of entertainment would continue even after the culmination of one show, they would have no reason to look elsewhere. Thus, the masterstroke of launching DID Li'l Masters, right after the finale of DID, has clearly worked in Zee TV's favour.

Interestingly, both DID Li'l Masters and Chak Dhoom Dhoom are kids-based dance reality shows, following a more or less similar format. Both the shows will witness 16 contestants, fighting for the prize over a period of almost 13 weeks.

Given such similarities, what makes viewers prefer DID Li'l Masters over Chak Dhoom Dhoom?

Rajiv Gopinath, chief operating officer, Madison Platinum, observes, "The weekend prime GRPs of the top three GECs are pretty close to each other. So, this has not, in any way, skewed ratings of one show over the other. It is rather the slot performance, which has influenced the opening weeks' ratings. DID has been an established slot for the last five months; so, it was only natural for the opening of L'il Masters to have a blockbuster TVR. This has steadily dipped from 6.7 to 3.2 in the third week of the launch of the show. On the other hand, Chak Dhoom Dhoom needed huge promotions to get a good initial rating of 4.3."

Gopinath also points out that DID, as a generic brand, has worked well for Zee TV. Because it focuses on the talent of the common person, viewers perceive it as a better representative of talent across the country, in comparison to other shows. The judges have brought a lot of credibility to the format - not only are they seen as experts in their trade; but are perceived to be compassionate and encouraging, seeking to bring out the best in the participants.

On Chak Dhoom Dhoom, on the other hand, it is learnt that in the third week of the show itself, one of the judges, Vindoo Dara Singh, is being replaced.

As far as Zara Nach Ke Dikha on STAR Plus is concerned, media planners do not evaluate it on the same parameters as the other two kids-based reality shows. This is because Zara Nach Ke Dikha has TV actresses and actors as participants; moreover, the format of the show pitches a girls' team against a boys' team.

Interestingly, the first season of Zara Nach Ke Dikha was aired on STAR One. The show has been shifted to the parent GEC, STAR Plus, in the hope of garnering more eyeballs. But has the experiment been successful?

One of the senior media planners from the industry states that the show's ratings during the last season on STAR One were more or less similar to this season's ratings on STAR Plus.

The planner admits that in the short run, it might look lucrative to shift the property on the main GEC to get a higher premium for the offering. However, considering that a revamp of STAR One is on the anvil; it may have been a better choice to continue with the dance reality show on the same channel, as it would boost STAR One's image in the longer run.

To some extent, the media observer's argument finds support in the TAM ratings of the last edition of Zara Nach Ke Dikha on STAR One. Last year, as per TAM data, C&S 4+, HSM (July 14 to September 28), the show on STAR One got a highest TVR of 2.21. The grand finale of the dance reality show fetched the channel a TVR of 1.95.

Gopinath of Madison Platinum argues otherwise; and cites TAM data on Zara Nach Ke Dikha on STAR One to prove his point. According to him, the show garnered a cumulative reach of 33 million viewers. That is 50 per cent of what a typical show on STAR Plus does. One has seen a 100 per cent lift in ratings on the STAR Plus platform, he says.

Reality shows move to exotic locales in search of ambience, local support and higher TRPs

The producers of Desi Girl probably guessed that a bunch of drama queens living the village life is bound to bring in higher TRPs for Imagine. While the girls will bring in the drama, the location—in this case a village in Punjab—will provide them the exotic backdrop and reason for their sneers and tears, making it a key character on the show.

The back-to-the-roots theme bug has already bit the fiction entertainment across channels—with shows like the popular Balika Vadhu, Na Aana Iss Des Laado and now Jamunia and Keshav Pandit being shot in Chhatisgarh and Varanasi respectively. Now, it’s the turn of reality shows to move out of cities. Imagine’s corporate communications and marketing head Nikhil Madhok confirms, “To step outside the city and plan a show in a rural area is not by default but by design. We realised that the viewers are really hooked to the rural themes in fictional shows so we figured that a reality show in a real village might interest their curiosity too.”

The last few months have seen a rise in the number of shows, which could otherwise be shot inside a studio, being taken to unusual locations. Take for example, the recently-launched Dadagiri, which was a studio show in its first season but has changed the format to give it an action-packed edge and taken it to Kolwel near Goa. Or both Rakhi ka Swayamvar and Rahul Dulhaniya Le Jayega, which were shot in the Fateh Garh Palace in Udaipur. MTV’s latest offering, Polo Ultimate Drive, after completing auditions across Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore and Chennai, will take its four finalists to the outskirts of Chennai where they will compete with each other on a car racing track.

Desi Girl is a part of Imagine’s larger plan to stay true to the concept of reality shows and take them outside studios. “Reality is often confused with talent shows in India. We want to create a clear distinction between the two. Therefore, our recent shows like both Rakhi and Rahul’s swayamvars and Pati, Patni Aur Woh, though kept the participants in semi-confinement, took them to unusual locations,” adds Madhok.
However, not everyone shares Madhok’s zest for the definition of reality. Many say the decision to take the show outside a city depends on the format. Nikhil Gandhi, Business Head, UTV Bindaas, emphasises that the format of Dadagiri had to evolve to keep it popular. “Once we introduced the commando training, we had to hunt for a place that had a beach, a hill and a small forest area close by to accommodate the various stages of the show,” he notes.

Sheetal Sudhir, the creative director at Channel V, seconds Gandhi. She adds that the visual appeal of the location plays a huge role too. “Shows like Splitsvilla or a Truth Love Cash which is currently on air, require couples to spend time together and need them loafing in picturesque resort or pool, which is tough to find in Mumbai, which is where we have our studio. Places like Goa, which lend great ambience to the show, are a fair option.”

That probably also explains why Colors chose to take its star-studded Fear Factor—Khatron Ke Khiladi to international locales, though India would probably have offered equally good options. Another benefit of taking a show to smaller towns is the support they garner from the locals. “If a show is being shot in your backyard, you are bound to check it out,” expresses Madhok.

Apart from that, shooting in a city is often riddled with peculiarly urban problems. “You can barely get the camera out without attracting a crowd in cities or its outskirts,” complains Gandhi. The creators have always maintained that this is the reason for taking Bigg Boss out of Mumbai. Sudhir, on the other hand, feels that the law in cities can come in the way of production. “It was tough for us to shoot Launchpad in Madh Island because according to rules, you can’t play music loudly after 10 pm. In such cases, shooting in Goa or remote locations works well in terms of production,”she adds.

Chak Dhoom Dhoom is just another dance competition

Chak Dhoom Dhoom is a me-too dance contest for kids aged six to 14 we guess, because a few “over age” children were disqualified, making one disgruntled boy weep copiously and say on camera, “Mere dada daadi ka sapna tha ki main dancer banoon aur main agar yeh dance contest jeet jata toh main unke budhape ka sahara ban jaata”. Excuse me, this is too much. Parents and now grandparents expecting their children to win dance contests to support them!

So you have tiny moppets of all shapes and sizes (including the cho-chweet rotund kids showing their backside and mouthing ‘Jahanpanah tohfa kabool kijiye’. Aamir Khan, take a rap!), their faces made up and contorting their agile, fragile bodies to make the cut. Saroj Khan, Ahmed Khan and Vindu Dara Singh are looking for their P3s (perfect dance, perfect expressions and perfect technique) and we thought no one is perfect!

The show doesn’t offer you anything we haven’t seen before… the same old sob stories, weeping parents, super enthusiastic kids, some sweet and innocent while others who could put grown-ups to shame with their hip moves and pouts and pirouettes.

We do have a bone to pick with the judges though. It’s a bit confusing as to how they operate and pick and choose. Like there was this girl who was a good dancer but wasn’t given a chance only because she stuck to one dance form. Even when she assured the judges she could do other forms, the judges said, ‘You get only one opportunity’ which was a bit unfair because that girl could have impressed them only if she had got another chance. Ditto, another boy who wasn’t treated fairly! On the other hand, another girl got selected only because she “promised to work hard”. We guess it’s all about catching the judges on a right day! And what is it about Ahmed Khan giving ‘friendship bands’ to selected kids...No connection, boss.

Interesting, a little boy, Sushanket Mishra from Bhubaneshwar who didn’t get selected in this show appeared for the DID Little Masters and got chosen. You win some, you lose some.

Boogie Woogie, Comedy Circus Bash Rocks!

Few shows in India have seen the kind of audience following and success as – ‘Boogie Woogie’ and ‘Comedy Circus’.

The combination of potent content and high quality production has seen both the shows develop a legion of fans and seen unprecedented success year after year.

This May, these perennial favorites return on Sony Entertainment Television with a promise to ignite excitement coupled with hilarity and vigor will propel entertainment to an all new level. ‘Boogie Woogie’ launches on May 19th, 09:00pm and ‘Comedy Circus Ke Superstars’ launches on May 22nd, 09:00 pm.

Boogie Woogie is Indian television’s longest running dance show with 15 years of continued success.

The show continues to enjoy mass following and give a platform to talented individuals from across the country to showcase their talent.

Every succeeding season has raised the bar and this season will up the tempo starting with Boogie Woogie Kids Championship, exciting rounds, novel themes and the dynamic jury of Javed Jaffrey, Naved Jaffery and Ravi Behl are all set to take entertainment to the next level. And that’s not all, for the first time ever Javed Jaffery will perform after long hiatus on the song “I am Mumbhai” from the movie ‘Bombay Boys’.

Comedy Circus Ke Superstars continues the journey of the most successful comedy franchise on television. For the first time ever, new jodis will challenge the champions of comedy and both the teams will perform in the episode.

DID Little Master - a new dancing reality TV Show

DID Little Master Hosts:

DID Little Master hosts are Manish Paul and Saumya. Manish Paul is the most popular host of ZEE TV. He has hosted - Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Mega Challenge and Ghar Ghar Me Fursat Ke Lamhe also. Saumya Tandon is again back in DID Li'l Masters on ZEE TV as a host after the Dance India Dance 2.

DID Little Master Judges/Masters:

DID Little Master jury members are Remo D'Souza, Geeta Kapoor, Terence Lewis and Sandip Soparrkar. They judge the Show. They have been seen as the judge during the auditions of DID Little Master on ZEE TV.

DID Little Master Grandmaster:

Mithun Chakraborty will participate in this show as the Grandmaster. Grand Master Mithun Da will continue his gracious presence in the first season of Dance India Dance Li'l Masters on ZEE TV also.

DID Little Master Mentors:

DID Little Master mentors are Jay Kumar Nair, Amrita Mitra, Mayuresh-Vrushali and Dharmesh Yelande. They already have proved their talent in the series of Dance India Dance.

DID Little Masters Format:

DID Little Masters Show is also based on the same concept of Dance Indian Dance 2. The Show chooses 100 dancing stars through the auditions. These 100 dancing stars call for the mega auditions in Mumbai. Finally, the top 16 from these 100 stars are chosen for competition. DID Little Masters format is in the continuation of DID series. Winner of DID Little Master will be declared in the grand finale of the Show. Dance India Dance Little Master winner will be awarded by “The Golden Super Wings.”

DID Little Masters Auditions:

DID Little Master audition was held in various cities of the country. DID Little Masters auditions had been organized in Delhi, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Nagpur, Guwahati, Kolkatta, Patna, Vadodara and Mumbai. Thousands of dancing wonders had participated in the auditions. DID Li'l Masters auditions had been dedicated to the thousands of contestants from the age group 5-13.

DID Li'l Master auditions had been advertised by an advertisement. Interested candidates had to register for an audition through an SMS or online form. Currently, auditions for DID Little Masters on ZEE TV are over.

Dance India Dance( DID ) Li'l Masters

DID Little Master is a new dancing reality TV Show on ZEE TV. The Show starts from 30th April, 2010 in India at 9:30 PM. Competition of the Show starts for “The Golden Super Wings”.

DID Little Master concept came in mind during the auditions of DID 2 when some contestants make judges surprised by their fabulous performance. Dance India Dance series has emerged as the best dancing platform in the country. The Show maintains its standard and quality through dancing competition. DID 2 was the most successful season on ZEE TV.

Contestants of DID Little Masters on ZEE TV have already performed a dance on the grand finale of DID 2. The Show has been advertised on the many platforms.

DID Li'l Masters on ZEE TV create the biggest competition for Chak Dhoom Dhoom. Both Shows start in the competition of each other. Both are dancing reality TV Shows. DID L'il Masters aims to open doors for talented children of our country. Winner of DID Li'l Masters would be crowned as “India's best child dancing sensation.”

DID Little Master is started with an amazing opportunity to discover the hidden talent from various cities of the country. The Show searches “DANCE KE BAAP.”

Dance India Dance Little Master proceeds with India Ke Best Kid Dancing Sensation Ki Khoj from the auditions.

Dance India Dance Little Master on ZEE TV has been introduced with some changes. During the auditions, junior dancers get “Super Wing” rather than “Taqdeer Ki Topi.” Winner of DID Little Masters will be known as “Dance Ke Baap” rather than “India’s Sabse Bada Dancing Star.” DID Little Master will get “Golden Super Wing” or “Sunehri Super Wing” in the grand finale rather than “Sunehri Taqdeer Ki Topi.”

Overall, concept of DID Li'l Master on ZEE TV is very similar to its previous. There are some changes in technical words only. This time, the whole team will be divided into 4. All four team would have 4 contestants. Farah Khan will also get a chance of being the judge of the Show.

DID Little Master on ZEE TV bring a revolutionary era in dance just like a singing era of Little Champs 2009. The Show maintains a standard just like DPL. The Show is able to make us learn in our home also. We also try to learn by watching the Show on ZEE TV. Watch DID Little Masters on ZEE TV every Friday and Saturday at 9:30 PM in India.

First Episode of Truth Love Cash

First episode of [V] Truth Love Cash begins with 7 true couple participants. They participate in the Show with their real life’s couples. This is the game TV Show so; they had to perform a task.

In the first task, every girl had to use chocolate on their chicks. They had to urge people to leak the chocolate from their chicks. In the return they can take money from them.

On the other hand, every guy had to earn cash with their partners. They will earn money in the return of people’s slaps.

In the task, each couple is handcuffed with each other. They had to perform the task only in 30 minutes on a beach.

Winner of the task is declared on the basis of more earning. Highest cash earner is declared winner of Truth Love Cash on Cannel V in this episode.

The task is won by Vishakha and Satya in Truth Love Cash. Ajay and Navneet are declared as the second highest earner of the TV Show. The lowest earner of the task – Chandrani and Hafeez are eliminated from the Show.

Finally, 6 couples reach in the house of TLC (Truth Love Cash). House of TLC was well furnished, decorated and well designed with garden, lawn and beautiful ground.

First day in the house of TLC, all couples get a small party. In the party, Yudi again enters and talks about a secret temptation.

On the basis of the earning, Yudi gives them an amount in their cash account such as – first winner gets Rs. One lakh and second winner receives Rs. 75 thousands.

In the secret temptation, first and second highest earner had not to participate. So, they are sent into secure zone.

Sumit, Praveen, Vinit and Zamil are sent for the secret temptation in [V] Truth Love Cash. They were insecure contestants of the Show.

Finally, Anisha is introduced as the temptation of the Show. She had highest amount of cash. If any insecure guy chooses her to team up, he will be second highest earner with her in TLC TV Show. All four guys spend a night with her. Anisha tries to intimate with all four guys.

Finally, all four guys meet in temptation zone. From here one girl or one couple was to be eliminated. All four insecure guys had to choose either their love or cash in the temptation ground. At last, all guys choose their love.

In the consequence of Truth Love Cash first episode, Hamida and Jamil are eliminated from the temptation ground. In the end, Anisha also joins 5 remaining couples of TLC Show on Channel V.

Shradha Sharma reunites with Raja Chaudhary

In a recent interview to a film magazine, former Bigg Boss participant, actor and producer Raja Chaudhary very candidly said, "Shradha is better than Shweta (Shweta Tiwari) as a person, a human and a companion." He further added than Shradha Sharma is much more sexier and beautiful than his ex-wife Shweta Tiwari.

Raja Chaudhary is a fighter, a survivor and a tough person. In spite of what has been written about him in the past, Raja has made a U-turn. He has convinced his lady-love Shradha Sharma to be with him and the couple have kissed and made up.

In fact, Raja is expected to go to Shradha's home at Lokhandwala officially this Sunday and ask her to take him back as her partner. He is also expected to propose marriage to her once again, after their bitter experience in Emotional Atyachar.

If Rakhi Sawant and Abhishek can do a Reality Show together even after breaking up, so can Shradha Sharma and Raja Chaudhary. But in this case, the couple is now very much together. Sources say that Sharadha and Raja Chaudhary will be seen in a dance Reality Show very soon on a popular Hindi entertainment channel.

The couple is also negotiating a comedy show together as well as stage shows and item songs in films. Raja Chaudhary is supposedly producing a new music video
for Shardha. We look forward to seeing the couple together on screen. Like they say, 'all's well that ends well'. We wish the couple great time together.

Rucha Gujarati faces reality on Desi Girl

Imagine’s latest reality show, Desi Girl, is the one to watch for this season. In keeping with the unique theme of the show, eight 'divas' from the television fraternity will be vying to be tagged the ultimate 'Desi Girl'. But it is not going to happen easily as these bombshells will be required to live in a real village in Punjab and perform tasks which range from washing clothes to making cow dung to bathing buffaloes.

“It is a very different show and has some very innovative and fun-filled tasks which are going to be performed by the girls in pairs."

When contacted, one of the contestants, Rucha Gujarati, said, “Out of all the tasks that we have done, I’m going to remember the one in which we were supposed to handle cow dung. Gosh, I have never held cow dung and had to close my eyes during the task. But all in all it was an amazing experience.”

She added, “I’ve been a pampered child and have never been exposed to rural life, never stayed alone. So it was like experiencing a new lifestyle altogether.”

Adds the source, "One of the tasks required the girls to wash actual buffaloes. They even had to catch running chickens and earn scores depending on the number of chickens they collected. It was hilarious. But the best part was when they were required to dress up their buffaloes for a buffalo fashion show!”

Bosco-Caesar to judge Chak Dhoom Dhoom

Television has proved to be a lucrative option for reputed Bollywood music directors, singers and choreographers. Over the years, the unsung (and underpaid) heroes of the film industry have been a regular feature on reality shows predominantly as judges, mentors or hosts. Two names that have so far remained untouched by the reality bandwagon are of ace Bollywood choreographers Bosco and Caesar. However, that’s not the case anymore after the duo took up mentoring duties on Colors reality show Chak dhoom dhoom.

Before one can say anything, the duo sigh, “We are the last established choreographers to take to reality shows. In the past, we’ve been offered many reality shows including Dance India Dance but we were busy with our Bollywood commitments, thus we couldn’t take up any.”

The catholic boys, who’ve choreographed tracks such as Dus bahane (Dus), Seekh le (Munna bhai M.B.B.S), are surprisingly just mentoring the kids in Chak dhoom dhoom, when ideally, the country’s best dancers should be occupying the judges’ chair.

“Actually, we prefer mentoring than judging. As a judge your task is to merely give points. As mentors, we’ll be choreographing all acts and importantly, we get to do all those things with the kids which we can’t do with our Bollywood stars. Children are like sponge, you can mould them into any shape,” replied Bosco. Money is the incentive for such artists to come to TV, but Bosco Caesar disagree saying, “Reality shows have given us (choreographers) the necessary exposure. Television is more demanding thus the question of who pays better doesn’t arrive. Be it films or TV, the effort that goes in is the same. So, money doesn’t come into the picture.”

The duo specialise in all types of dancing but judge Saroj Khan is known to be partial towards classical and Bollywood dance. Won’t there be a conflict of interest here? “I don’t think that situation will arise. As said before, we’ll be choreographing all acts. It will be mélange of Indian and western dance,” avers Bosco.

As a legendary name, Khan is entitled to her opinion but the presence of actor Vindu Dara Singh in the jury does raise few brows. An actor, not known for his dancing skills, will adjudicate acts choreographed by nation’s top dancers. Somehow that defies logic. However, our boys have an explanation for this too.

“Vindoo is an emotional guy. Saroj and Ahmed Khan will judge technically, while Vindoo will adjudicate like the junta. Guess, the channel needed someone with junta’s vision and Vindoo must be the perfect choice,” the duo explained.

We will be kind to children, say Chak Dhoom Dhoom judges

The judges of upcoming dance reality show on Colours for the young ones, Chak Dhoom Dhoom, said they would take every possible care to not to break its participants' hearts.

"It is much easier to work with children than to judge them. They are very energetic, sharp and grasp things quickly. We will ensure that we do not break the hearts of these children," ace choreographer and one of the judges of the show, Saroj Khan told PTI.

The other two judges of the show, for children between 5 and 14 years, are choreographer Ahmed Khan and winner of Bigg Boss season 3, Vindoo Dara Singh.

"These children are incredible in performance. We will be fair enough in judging them and would be cautious that our words do not hurt them, said choreographer Ahmed said.

Dance guru's Bosco and Ceaser, who are the mentors for the show, will be working extremely hard to prepare the young ones.

We have begun the process of evaluating children and started creating styles.

The children will be performing every possible dance form, right from disco to tangos, from Kathak to lavni, the duo said.

The show starting April 30 will be aired every Friday and Saturday at 9 pm only, where children will be competing for the coveted title of the 'Best Junior Dancing Star'.

Small wonder Saloni Daini will play the role of quintessential friend and keeping time with her is going to be Pravesh Rana, who was also a participant in Bigg Boss 3, the host of the show.

"I will be a guide to all my young friends here. I will make them laugh, cheer and encourage them and also lend my shoulder to cry on. I am very much excited and going to enjoy and make people enjoy too," Saloni said.

Pravesh said, "It is going to be bit difficult to handle the children when they receive negative comments or get eliminated. I will console them."

Chak Dhoom Dhoom Dance Reality Show Audition Results 2010

Dance is a art which have not in everyone. Chak Dhoom Dhoom is the new dance reality show for the Little dancers between the Group age of 5 to 14 years. Chak Dhoom Dhoom which is starts from April 30, 2010 on Colours channel and this show will aired every Friday at 9 PM.

Programing Head, Ashvini said: it is the first time dance show on Colours channel and it is a first experience for our team. Now, extending our promise to continue with encouraging talent in the country, Chak Dhoom Dhoom is yet another step in that direction. At the time of Auditions so many Little children who have the art of dance they came from various states and came before one day for the auditions.



Chak Dhoom Dhoom dance reality shows judges from which two are best choreographer named as Saroj Khan and Ahmed Khan and third Big Boss winner Vindu Dara Singh. These three judges have already selected 40 contestants out of infinite contestant. Now These 40 contestants will come to Mumbai for Further competition and at last out of them only 16 will be selected for the national level for this season of Chak Dhoom Dhoom. Sources said that Saloni Daini and Pravesh Rana will host the show.

Chak Dhoom Dhoom Auditions

Chak Dhoom Dhoom is a dance reality show for kids ranging among 5 to 14. The show is scheduled to air on Colors Channel and reportedly, there will be a total of 40 children on dance stage. Colors wants to promote dancing skills among children and for that reason they have come with a dancing program for kids. A very large number of kids, from all parts of the country, were arrived for auditions and after watching their performances, judges passed only 40 contestants. The passed contestants are now called at stage where they will show their skills before public on Colors stage. The show premieres tonight on May 1st at 9 pm at Colors.

In their statement, Colors says they have always encouraged young talent and Chak Dhoom Dhoom is their another effort. They say their first such project was Chhote Miyan that remained on air for months and now after that they have come along with CDD. The jury includes on following members of Vindu Dara Singh, Saroj Khan and Ahmed Khan. Vindu Dara Singh is the winner of last year’s Bigg Boss while Saroj Khan is a renowned choreographer. Saroj Khan will teach young talent the basic techniques of a good dance. Vindu Dara Singh is a film actor and I don’t know what will he teach to them?

Another Bigg Boss mate Pravesh Rana will be seen on screen hosting the show. The last 16 contestants will compete against each other for whole 13 weeks.

Rakhi Sawant gets friendly with ex-beau Abhishek Awasthi

First, Rakhi Sawant wasn’t even ready to talk to her ex-beau Abhishek Awasthi; now she is not only talking to him but both are dancing together. Good dancing times are back, thanks to the new show ‘Zara Nachke Dikha’.

Though Rakhi and Abhishek represent two different groups in the show, on Sunday they shot together for a performance. The episode which is yet to air has brought Rakhi-Abhishek on the same platform. And as sources tell a daily, “They danced together after which Rakhi said that Abhishek is the best partner she has ever had.”

The duo broke up approximately two years back and was not on talking terms since then. Both make an amazing dancing jodi and were also one of the top finalists in the show ‘Nach Baliye’. In fact, seeing both of them dancing together after such a long time, Abhishek’s mother who was present on the sets became very happy.

Rakhi even apologized for once hurting her and said about Abhishek, “We are friends again.”

Kritika working extra hard for Zara Nachke Dikha

All the contestants of ‘Zara Nachke Dikha’ are geared up to set the stage on fire with their sizzling moves. But along with this burning desire, there is that fear of getting eliminated that is constantly on their minds. Kritika Kamra shares similar feelings.

“I am trying very hard and rehearsing day and night for the show as our second technical will held today and final shoot for 3rd episode will be completed tomorrow,” says an exhausted Kamra.

She told that performing in a reality show is not an easy job and requires lot of energy. She added that the audience will only see their performance and that they won’t know at what hour of day was it being recorded so one needs to show his/her vigor even if shoot is happening at odd hours.

“Its just the start and I am already feeling tired, let’s see how far I go in the race and how much the audience likes me and my dance,” signs off Kritika.

Zara Nachke Dikha: First day; 24 hr marathon

Television is a grind and reality shows in particular consume lot of time and energy. Two episodes shot in one day is a common practice. Usually, the two episodes are shot in about 12-13 hours. However, the inaugural shoot of Zara Nachke Dikha 2 stretched to a mind boggling 24 hours.

The contestants assembled at Filmcity studio no.7 at 7.00 am on 21 April and only left a good 24 hours later. Thus actors, who work in daily soaps, were severely inconvenienced.

A contestant requesting anonymity informs, “This is my first reality show but never did I thought that the first day would turn out to be so hectic. All contestants arrived on time. Arshad and Vaibhavi in fact arrived before scheduled time. Shilpa Shetty arrived by 10.00 am We had to perform four times which required four different props and clothing. The make-up and dressing took a lot of time. By the time, we began shooting for the second episode, it was well past mid-night. The likes of Sanjeeda Shaikh and Rashmi Desai slept only for a few minutes as they had a 7.00 amshoot for their respective shows.”

Another contestant adds, “I worked for 24 hours for ZND, thereafter I had to report for a 9.00 am shoot. I simply rushed to the sets. As a result, I ended up shooting for 36 hours. Worse, I couldn’t get to brush my teeth that day. Fortunately, I’m now heading home and will straight away land on bed.”

Meanwhile, eviction is part of this season. Every week the wining team shall nominate a candidate from a rival team. That individual will be put to test next week and if his/her performance fails to impress the judges than thatcontestant will be evicted. In the first episode, the successful girls have nominated a guy. To find out who is he, tune into Zara Nachke Dikha on 1 May.

Shilpa shot non-stop for 22 hours for reality show

Shilpa Shetty had a tough time shooting for her upcoming reality show “Zara Nach Ke Dikha” when she had to shoot for 22 hours at a stretch.

“Started shooting for ‘Zara Nach Ke Dikha’. Shot for 22 hours at a stretch. There was a technical glitch and had to shoot two episodes as to get the combination dates of all artists again would have been impossible before the cut off… well our lives are not as glamorous as they look!” she wrote on her blog.

The show, set to go on air from May 1 on STAR Plus, will see TV actors and actresses competing with each other on the dance floor.

The girls team include Aditi Gupta, Hazel Crowney, Kritika Kamra, Mukti Mohan, Rakhi Sawant, Rashmi Desai, Sangeeta Ghosh, Sanjeeda Sheikh, and Sparsh Khanchandani.

The boys participating in the show are Aamir Ali, Abhishek Avasthi, Angad Hasija, Karan Kundra, Kapil Nirmal, Aksshat Seluja, Siddhesh Pai, Sushant Rajput and Ayesh Khedekar.

Apart from Shilpa, the judges panel also includes actor Arshad Warsi and choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant.

Shilpa had earlier judged celebrity dance show “Jhalak Dikhla Jaa”.

Vaibhavi Merchant is third judge for ‘Zara Nachke Dikha’

Vaibhavi Merchant, the choreographer behind Aishwarya Rai’s sensuous moves in “Kajra re” from the movie “Bunty Aur Babli”, will now be co-judging STAR Plus’ dance reality show “Zara Nachke Dikha” along with Bollywood stars Shilpa Shetty and Arshad Warsi.

Vaibhavi, who won a National Award for choreographing the song “Dhol baaje” from the film “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam”, has been a celebrity judge on shows like “Jhalak Dikhla Jaa” and “Nach Baliye 3″ earlier. But she is extremely excited about this new show, which is a battle of the sexes between nine male and nine female TV actors.

“The show is primarily about great dancing with celebrities set against the background of gender competition. Hence we wanted a great female and a male dancer and an ace choreographer who has made both men and women dance to her tunes. The formidable trio will not only bring tough judging but great fun quotient to the show,” said Anupam Vasudev, executive vice president (marketing), STAR India Pvt Ltd.

The participants will be assessed not only for their dancing talent but also for their performances on different theme based dances, innovative use of props, impromptu challenge facing abilities, strategies to win the battle and team spirit.

The show will be hosted by actors Mohit Sehgal and Sanaya Irani of “Miley Jab Hum Tum” fame. It will premiere May 1, and will be aired every Saturday-Sunday at 9 p.m.

Shilpa Shetty on the judges of Zara Nachke Dikha seat again

Bollywood stunner Shilpa Shetty continues to make news. After a recent high profile wedding, the glamorous lady made her foray into the IPL arena. It has been fruitful, with her team Rajasthan Royals having a good run so far. Now she is ready with her next venture, a reality show on television. She is all set to judge the dance-based reality show Zara Nachke Dikha.

Shilpa is no stranger to reality shows or televison. She won the UK reality show Big Brother in 2007 which got her international recognition! Life changed for her since then. She has also been a judge on the first season of Jhalak Dikhla Jaa, again a dance show. The girl has been famous for her dance moves. Indeed her jhatkas in numbers like Main Ayi Hoon UP Bihar lootne and Shut up and Bounce have become a rage, making her a dancing sensation. Vaibhavi Merchant and actor Arshad Warsi are the other two judges on the show. Recently, Shilpa did a jig with the jovial Arshad to promote the show. Not many know that Arshad is an accomplished dancer, especially in jazz. The two burnt the dance floor with their salsa act!

Zara Nachke Dikha was a hit show in its first season on Star One. Now it will be telecast on Star Plus, with Mohit Sehgal and Sanaya Irani as the hosts. It will have celebrities like Kapil Nirmal, Sangeeta Ghosh, Siddhesh Pai, Krititka Karma, Rakhi Sawant, Rashmi Desai, Karan Kundra, Aamir Ali etc. if last time it was Meethi churis and Tez talwars, this time its Maskallis and Mastkalandars! It promises to be a highly entertaining show!

Now Indian version of ‘So You Think You Can Dance’

After a slew of internationally popular shows making their way to Indian television, American dance reality show “So You Think You Can Dance?” is also set to get a desi twist on Imagine TV very soon.

“We have been doing very well on the reality TV space with new and different formats. So we are making all efforts to strengthen our position through that. We are bringing down a massive dance show. Basically an Indian version of ‘So You Think You Can Dance?’,” Nikhil Madhok of Imagine TV told IANS.

The show is known for getting ace salsa, ballroom, hip hop, contemporary, jazz, ballet and many other types of dancers on one stage.

While the Indian version will be in tune with the original format of the show, whether the title will be changed to something more “desi” is a decision that will be taken in due course.

“For now, we are going to say ‘So You Think You Can Dance? Now in India’ but we should be able to decide and announce something about it in five to seven weeks from now,” added Madhok, who was here to announce the launch of newreality show “Desi Girl”.

“Desi Girl”, which will go on air later this year, has eight celebrity women who will undertake everyday tasks of the villagers such as milking cows, making cow dung cakes, cleaning the house and cooking food for the family to prove that they aren’t just about glamour and style but also have it in them to be a true ‘Desi Girl’.

Meanwhile, the channel is also planning to bring on the second season of “Raaz…Pichhle Janam Ka” and the third season of their infamous ‘Swayamvar’.

Though Bhojpuri star Ravi Kishan has confirmed that he will make a comeback on the next season of “Raaz…Pichhle Janam Ka” which took many people back into their past lives, Madhok says nothing is finalised yet.

“Ravi worked very well for us last time and we will be more than happy to have him back on board, but no decision has been taken yet. Shooting schedules have to be worked out and accordingly, we should come up with something around the second half of August,” he revealed.

There is also a strong buzz that after the ‘Swayamvar’ of item girl Rakhi Sawant and Rahul Mahajan, the channel is going to hunt for a spouse for a popular cricketer.

“We won’t take any names. But yes, we are in advance talks with a cricketer. We are also in talks with two Bollywood actors and one Bollywood actress. Let’s see who gets a chance this time,” said Madhok.

He said no matter who the celebrity bride or groom would be in the next season, the channel will ensure that it eventually ends with a marriage on screen - just the way it happened with Rahul Mahajan, son of slain BJP leader Pramod Mahajan.

“We realised that there was a lot of disappointment among viewers when Rakhi did not get married in the finale of her ‘Swayamvar’. But they didn’t feel cheated when Rahul fulfilled his promise of taking his ‘dulhaniya’ home. If we don’t continue the format, the audience won’t stay,” he said.

‘Zara Nachke Dikha’ should change my image: Sushant Rajput

He is famous as Manav of hit TV serial “Pavitra Rishta”, but actor Sushant Rajput is now looking for an image change with dance reality show “Zara Nachke Dikha”.

The actor plays a serious, quiet and intense character in “Pavitra Rishta” aired on Zee TV but now wants to have some “fun”.

“To an extent, this is an effort to change my image. My first show was ‘Kis Desh Mein Hai Mera Dil’, where I was playing a character which was very similar to what I’m in real life,” Sushant told IANS in an interview.

“But the character of Manav is entirely different from what I am in real life. He is so mature and so serious all the time and living that character for 16 hours a day is really a task, so I wanted to have some fun now,” he said.

Sushant, who is from Delhi, was an engineering student when he decided to take up acting. In his first show ‘Kis Desh Mein Hai Mera Dil’, he played the character of Preet and then moved on to his big break in Ekta Kapoor’s “Pavitra Rishta”.

The 24-year-old actor, who will now be seen as one of the contestants in “Zara Nachke Dikha” that started Saturday on Star Plus, revealed that he loves dancing since childhood.

“I love dancing a lot. I was a student of (choreographer) Shiamak Davar. I just love being on stage. That was one more reason for giving this show a chance,” Sushant said.

On the show, he will be seen shaking a leg with other small screen actors like Sangeeta Ghosh, Aamir Ali, Abhishek Avasthi, Sanjeeda Sheikh and reality TV star Rakhi Sawant.

Actors Arshad Warsi and Shilpa Shetty and choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant are the judges of the show.

Sushant said his favourite judge is Arshad. “He is so precise in explaining us what we lacked and where we were good. He is very casual with us. He often comes back stage and talks to us, telling us about various nuances of dance, as a friend and not as a judge,” Sushant said.

“The best part of the show is that its a proper dance reality show. The judges check each and every step and the main focus is the dance,” he said.

45 new shows to be launched from May-August 2010

While the slam bang format of IPL brought everything to a standstill, Indian television now gears up for the most needed facelift. With almost 45 new shows slated to be launched from May-August, the fight for supremacy in the idiot box has begun all over again with a bang.

With the IPL taking the lion’s share of TRPs, most GECs preferred to lay low and devised strategies of striking back with a bang once the tournament was over. A mix of reality shows and soap operas will hit the airwaves in a bid to spice up the programming. Sony Entertainment Television is leading the pack with three new shows, Indian Idol 5, Boogie Woogie and Maan Rahe Tera Pitah. While Indian Idol returns with two new judges, the launch was postponed till the IPL carnival ended. “Our sister channel was airing the IPL matches so it was no point in launching new shows as the viewers interest would be divided,” says Ajay Bhalwankar, Programming Head. “As for Indian Idol, we have made it a weekly format so that people can follow their favourite contestants closely.” The channel is in fact pumping a whopping Rs 100 million to market this flagship property. In fact the launch of fiction show, Maan Rahe Tera Pitah, whose promos have been aired on TV, has been shifted to a later date. Dance reality show Boogie Woogie too is all set to make it to the tube in May with a new avatar and Salman Khan will pack a punch for the channel with Dus Ka Dum 3 and celebs will shake a leg in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa.

Also, hitting back with a vengeance is Star Plus with a heady mix of drama, reality and mythology. Reality show Zara Nach Ke Dikha 2 will premiere on May 1. With celeb contestants like Rakhi Sawant, Sangeeta Ghosh, Reshmi Desai, Sushant Singh Rajput, Amir Ali, Abhishek Avasthi among others, this battles of the sexes promises to be a cracker. Celeb judges Shilpa Shetty, Arshad Warsi and Vaibhavi Merchant add zing to the show. Yeshpal Sharma, vice president said, “Zara Nachke Dikha will showcase some of the biggest celebrities who will redefine the gender war through sheer talent and performance.”

The other reality shows from the channel are Nach Baliye 4 and Perfect Bride Season 2. On the fiction front the channel has Saath Nibhana Sathiya, Chand Chupa Baadal Mein (the latter is Ekta Kapoor’s big return) and another show by producer Rajan Shahi. “Each show has its own USP and we are focussed on what we are making. At a time when TRPs are fluctuating like the sensex, there is no constant number one show and audience interest keeps flipping from one show to another. Hence, this show too will be made from the heart with a strong focus on storyline,” says Shahi. If sources are to be believed, the channel is also planning to launch the mythology, Mahabharata.

Colors is all set to combat competition by bringing back some old favourites while airing some new content. Kids’ dance reality show, Chak Dhoom Dhoom with judges Saroj Khan, Ahmed Khan and Vindoo with Saloni Daini as host is one of the front runners. Speaking on the show, Programming Head Ashvini said, “We have always been the front-runner in providing a platform for talented young ones. We began our endeavour with Chhote Miyan and followed it up with two more seasons. Chak Dhoom Dhoom is another step in that direction. With auditions being held all over the country, we have been able to unearth some outstanding little dancers.” The auditions for India’s Got Talent 2 are underway while contestants for Big Boss 4 are being shortlisted. Taking the IPL fascination forward, the channel shot for Khatron Ke Khiladi with Priyanka Chopra as the new host and cricketers for contestants. The show was shot extensively in Brazil. “We’re delighted to have Priyanka on-board to host this year,” Yardi said.

Taking the success of Dance India Dance 2 further and competing with Chak Dhoom Dhoom, is Zee with Dance India Dance Li'l Masters. Singing talent will return with Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and if sources are to be believed, then the biggest of them all will be Cinestars Ki Khoj which makes its return after a long gap. Ekta Kapoor is also producing a detective show Keshav Pandit for the channel. Sab TV will launch Mr and Mrs Sharma... Allahabad Waale in mid May, with Rajesh Kumar and Divyanka Tirpathi in the lead. It also has Chal Chanchal Chal which is to be Sonu Walia’s big comeback. Sahara One has Bitto and Kathputli lined up.

NDTV Imagine has line up a host of reality shows starting with Desi Girl. “It’s a show that takes you back to your roots, tapping into the traditions of rural life!” said Shailja Kejriwal, EVP Content. Raaz Pichchle Janam Ka 2 will make a comeback. Red Chillies’ will be back with the second season of the hit comedy, Ghar Ki Baat Hai.

Dil Jitegi DESI GIRL NDTV Imagine TV Show

DESI GIRL is a new Indian reality show on NDTV Imagine TV Channel. A bunch of hot Mumbai girls arrive in a rural village, bringing with them their urban air and fashion. The villagers think it quite possible the city girls will run back to their metropolis with black faces.

8 girls from Mumbai in one village in Punjab. One of the girls will win over the hearts of the villagers, earning the title of Desi Girl.

The girls who are contesting for the title "Desi Girl" are Sambhavna, Ishita, Aushima, Rucha, Monica, Kashmera, Anmol and Roshni.

Desi girl's promo video :

NDTV Imagine's Official Press Release on Mumbai, Thursday, April 15, 2010:

8 glamorous Mumbai girls…one real village in Punjab…and a mind blowing reality show! Kya Shehar Ki Ladkiyaan ban payengi Desi Kudiyaan?

Over the last year, Imagine has managed to shake up the reality TV space with its unique and path breaking reality shows like Swayamvar Season 1 & 2, Pati Patni aur Woh and Raaz Pichhle Janam ka. And now,Imagine presents another unique slice of 'real life' with its fun filled new reality show DESI GIRL. Two opposing world’s will collide as 8 Mumbai-bred, glamorous divas are transplanted into a real life village in Punjab, in the battle to be crowned the ultimate DESI GIRL. Not only will these divas have to adapt to village life but they will also have to compete with one another to win the hearts of the villagers. The villagers will ultimately decide which one of these city girls has it in her to be like them and win the title of Desi Girl.

The 8 glamorous faces are - Sambhavna Seth, Kashmera Shah, Roshni Chopra, Monica Bedi, Anmol Singh, Rucha Gujarati, Ishitta Arun & Aushima Sawhney.

The girls will stay with families from the village in their houses. In turn, each of the girls will undertake everyday tasks of the villagers such as milking cows, making cow dung cakes, cleaning the house, cooking food for the family and much more. The divas will need to prove the villagers that they are not just glamour and style but also have the ability to live and thrive in the ‘real’ India - that they have it in them to be a true Desi Girl.

Commenting on Imagine’s latest new show, Shailja Kejriwal – EVP Content, Imagine said, “This is the real deal! It's a show that takes you back to your roots, tapping into the traditions of rural life that exist even today! DESI GIRL will put these girls in situations they would have never faced before. It will be a test of their inner strength, patience, drive to succeed and above all else their never say die attitude. It promises to provide hugely enjoyable moments for television audiences!”

This one-of-its-kind concept is co-produced by BBC Worldwide Productions India, marking their second innings with Imagine after the stupendous success of Pati Patni Aur Woh.

Myleeta Aga, General Manager and Creative Head, BBC Worldwide Productions India adds, “DESI GIRL further strengthens our association withImagine.

Following on from the immense success of Pati, Patni aur Woh, we look forward to building audience loyalty to our creative partnership and bringing innovative content to the market."

Which one of these provocative city-divas will be able to adapt to the life in the village and be crowned DESI GIRL? Stay tuned as DESI GIRL premieres soon this summer only onImagine!

Rakhi Sawant apologises to ex-boyfriend’s mother

Item girl Rakhi Sawant has reportedly buried the hatchet with ex-beau Abhishek Awasthi and apologised to his mother for her mistakes on the reality show “Zara Nachke Dikha”.

A source said that Rakhi became emotional and made a public apology to Abhishek’s mother who was present on the sets for the mother’s special episode shoot. Rakhi even hugged her.

Abhishek’s mother too became emotional on seeing Rakhi and Abhishek dancing together and confessed that Rakhi always was and will continue to be like her daughter and that she wants them to reunite.

Abhishek and Rakhi are sharing a public platform for the first time after their much-publicised breakup. Earlier, they were seen as a couple on “Nach Baliye”.

Emotional Atyachar: Is Rahul Mahajan’s Love True for Dimpy?

Dimpy Ganguly and Rahul Mahajan have got married on Reality television Show and their wedding
has crossed its first agni pariksha – on the reality Show.

Dimpy told after her wedding, “Wouldn’t it be cute to see both Rahul and me in another reality show?” And now, they have done their 2nd reality show – Emotional Atyachar.

Unlike others, Rahul’s wife did not get a loyalty test done on him because she was uncertain of her life partner’s love. So what was the cause?

Dimpy says “Since the moment we got wedded, people have been asking me the same questions – ‘Why have you wedded Rahul?, ‘Do you think he is dependable?’ I opted to get a fidelity test done on him to prove others wrong. I know Rahul truly loves me, and I wanted others to believe that too”.

Rahul Mahajan was caught with Nikunj Mallick on the spycam. Nikunj is one of three finalists of reality show ‘Rahul Dulhaniya Le Jayega’.

Rahul was a bit shocked about the happening and said, “It was pretty odd. Mujhe kuchh pata nahin chala. But soon I realised that it was Emotional Atyachar”.

Dimpy trapped Rahul in Emotional Atyachar

UTV Bindass’ ‘Emotional Atyachar’ has become a tool for an individual to secretly gauge the loyalty of his/her partner. Many an individual has been caught with his pants down, literally, thereby saving an innocent from being duped.

Such spying looks real with ordinary people but when celebrities
come on board, it invariably leads to speculation on whether the act is rigged. The show had earlier embarrassed Raja Chaudhary after his infidelity cost him his relationship with fiancé Shraddha Sharma.

This time, it’s the blabbering that it was Rahul Mahajan who was subject to an Emotional Atyachar by his wife Dimpy Ganguly. Strangely, Ganguly won over Rahul through a swaymavar, and barely few months after their marriage
, she chose to do an emotional atyachar on her man. The rationale given is that Mrs. Mahajan has long heard about Rahul’s alleged philandering ways. She wants her hubby to be ridded of the Casanova tag, thus she approaches the team of emotional atyachar.

Well, all that is fine, but the presence of Dimpy’s swayamvar competitor Nikunj Mallik in the spy act does raise a few brows. After all, Nikunj was snubbed by Rahul in the swayamvar. Her intentions behind the spy act seem dubious.

It so happens that Rahul Mahajan and Nikunj Mallik bump into each other at pool side of a hotel. After a brief interaction, Mallik introduces Rahul to Priyanka Nandi - an EAT (Emotional Atyachar team) agent. As soon as Mallik leaves the scene, Rahul starts getting cozy with Nandi. Another EAT agent steps in and Mr. Mahajan is at his tricks again. Dimpy was shocked to see her husband’s theatrics.

Will this now lead to a break-up between the newly weds. We tried calling Dimpy but she remained unavailable for comment.

When contacted, Mallik said, “I’m under a contract with the channel. I’m not authorised to speak on it. You’ll have to watch the episode to see the truth.”

A channel insider accidentally claimed that the final act is yet to be shot. This immediately begs the question that why would a candid camera show require a final shot. After all, isn't all such footage spontaneous in nature?

An individual closely associated with the act says, “You (media) guys are very intelligent and you know how it all takes place. I don’t need to say anything. You can draw your own conclusion.”

Whatever the show might reveal, there will be no threat to Rahul and Dimpy’s marriage. Nevertheless, don’t forget to watch Emotional Atyachar at 11.00 pm on 30 April on UTV Bindass.