The M Factor

X Factor is your second stint on television after Jhalak Dikhla Jaa. What about television attracts you?

Television had attracted me four years ago when I joined hands with Sony for judging Jhalak Dikhla Jaa. It was a wonderful experience on television but it was important to me to get back to films since I am a director. Post that stint,I had decided I will take up TV during my leisure time. I finished Guzaarish and since I had a break before my next film,I thought of doing this show.

Why X Factor ?

X Factor is the big daddy of all reality shows. It is going to be showcased on a very large scale. Audience will get a chance to see a number of people come with their dreams on this show. Being on the judging panel,it would be a great pleasure to see all those beautiful dreams getting fulfilled.

How do you see yourself dealing with the participants of X Factor ?

As this is a singing reality show,good singing is top priority and every contestant has to strive for that. Secondly,it is important to express oneself really well. I can very well read one’s eyes and hence I would see how far the expressions are true. Overall,a breakthrough voice is important. I will also look at their ability to perform.

One singer in India who you think has the X factor?

Kishore Da (Kumar) was a complete entertainer,he had that X factor. He always did what he felt like doing. Everything he did came from his heart,his singing,dancing and acting.

You are known for mentoring young music talent. Will you be doing the same with the participants?

If you have the talent,then no one can stop you. Here,you even have the platform,grooming and the TV exposure. Some people are frivolous and lose out on these things. Everyone who gets this platform should be able to chase the dream after the show. I don’t want to mentor anyone; I am here to recognise a ‘performer’.

What are the music shows you keenly follow on television?

I have followed all five seasons of Indian Idol.

You have been actively involved in music for years. Do you enjoy the music evolution?

The entire value of the music industry in India has evolved. The next generation of Indian musicians have various platforms to display their skills. I am a music lover,whether it is classical music,Bollywood songs or anything else,music is always around me.

Why do you think Guzaarish failed to click at the box-office?

There are a lot of factors that contribute towards the success of any movie in this country and not just one. It’s difficult to gauge what worked,what failed.