Beyond Borders

Who’s in it?Besides the motley crew of twenty talented kids,the show sparks with a super celebrity element. It brings together the soulful voices and musical geniuses of two nations,Sonu Niigam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan,on one platform. While they play the permanent judges of the show,the weekend show also plays host to a guest celebrity judge. Also,to introduce an element of relief from the intense singing,Omi Vaidya of 3 Idiots fame is brought in as the host of the show. He is accompanied by Chinmayi,a popular playback singer from the south.

What’s hot?The presence of the singing duo,Sonu Niigam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan on the screen,and their chemistry as musical mentors is a delight. This is magnified by their singing and the talent of the children. While Niigam is firm,Khan balances out with his relaxed yet insightful approach toward the contestants. Unlike the stereotypical talent shows,Chhote Ustaad-2 has for now managed to focus on musical merit to appease the audiences. And,for the benefit of the discerning viewer,the emotional monologues,dramatic disapproval of judgement and nasty exchanges between the judges and contestants are absent.

What’s not?Vadiya’s broken Hindi and badly timed spoofs,not only slow down the pace of the show,but also appear aberrant in the midst of well rehearsed notes poured out by young contestants. The classic example was when the judges were trying to match the musical scales of the contestants,Vaidya got weighing scales and measuring tapes to help them. He got some laughs,but one doubts whether they were with him or at him. Thanks to Chinmayi for her rescuing act. She is a saving grace.

Should you be watching it?The show has genuine talent and a variety of voices. The mature and encouraging attitude of the mentor-cum-judges is refreshing. And for someone who is looking forward to be enthralled by pure music,the show is a good bet for a weekend.