A sur‘real’ experience

A lot of young Puneites are participating in reality TV shows.

ALL of us long for those 15 seconds of fame, that short period of time when we, and only we, are the centre of attraction. But only a few manage to live this dream, among whom are those who find a way to participate in a reality show. Reality TV can turn an ordinary person into a distinct headline. And, young Puneites understand that fully, as the charm of spotlight leads them to participate in such shows. The consequence: more and more Puneites are featuring in reality shows. From dance-based shows to talent shows, you will find at least one contestant from the city. Any why not! City girl Abhilasha V Chellum of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar fame, is super excited to be among the top five contestants of the show. She says, “Shows like these give you a lot of exposure. Today, I can sing all kinds of songs, thanks to the reality show that I am a part of. The best part is that you are guided by the best in the industry. Who gets a chance to meet Vishal Shekhar so easily?” Recalling the day she met AR Rehman on the show, she says, “I was ecstatic. It was the best day of my life.” Being on the show has got Abhilasha a chance to sing in the upcoming film Satrangi Parachute, and also a chance to bring out her music album.

Reality shows are not just your claim to fame, but they can boost your career graph as well. Or sometimes, as in the case of Asif Sataar, begin a colourful journey. “It was my friends who encouraged me to take up the opportunity. I never thought I would be a part of Get Gorgeous 6. Pursuing modelling as my career had never crossed my mind. But, now I am glad it happened. People recognise me wherever I go, and it feels great when they appreciate me. Also, I have got many good offers post GG,” he says. The exposure and the recognition these shows give is unbeatable. “You really get famous. People recognise you, want to talk to you, click a picture with you etc. It really makes you feel special. You feel like a star. It’s really good to know that they like you,” quips Sufzal Saleem of Splitsvilla fame.

The glam quotient is at an all time high in reality shows. And, the best part of it all is that you get to meet the who’s who from the industry. Sabarna Chaterjee was overjoyed when she got a call to be a part of Kaun Banega Crorepati 4. Her happiness knew no bounds when she sat in front of Amitabh Bachchan on the hot seat. She recalls, “When I got the first call from KBC, I was surprised. Then, the expectations kept increasing. I really was looking forward to being on the show. The final call didn’t come for days. Then one day, it happened. Being on the show, sitting in front of Big B, it was perfect.” As cherry on the top was a prize money of 3,20, 000 that she took home. Reality bites, but in the case of these individuals, reality seems to be taking them to new heights!