The real champs

“Ever since I joined this reality show,various aspects of my personality have improved,” says 14-year-old Aishwarya. “My confidence level has sky-rocketed. Normally,I’m very shy but that’s not the case when I sing. Even my music has visibly improved. The judges have given me excellent tips and I try to utilise them as much as possible.” Advaita agrees,saying,“Thanks to the show,we have learnt a lot of technical details about music that we didn’t know about. We have also learnt how to sing with equipment,especially mikes.”

One may be forgiven for thinking that they limit themselves to only Marathi songs,but that is clearly not the case: 14-year-old Advaita is a die-hard Avril Lavigne fan. Aditi,at just a year younger,loves all Hindi and Marathi movie songs,but is especially fond of Mylie Cyrus. “By listening to different types of music,I can understand my art better. I can also utilise certain techniques that I pick up in other genres and use it in my own music,” says the incredibly mature teenager.

The best part,for them,has been the widespread recognition that they now command. “Wherever we go,people know who we are,” seems to be the unanimous opinion. And for them,to reach where they are now,a lot of people have contributed with their efforts. Schools have given them slack,teachers have extended their support,friends have helped out. “Many times,my friends help me with my homework,and keep me up to date with what’s happening in school,” shares Aishwarya.

And they also have their own idols. While Aishwarya swears by Lata Mangeshkar,Advaita is a fan of Asha Bhosle. “She is a very versatile singer and a dynamic person. Plus,her songs are so difficult,that just mastering them has made me a better singer,” Advaita smiles.