A.R. Rahman to judge a reality show

Celebrated music-composer A.R. Rahman is all set to play the second inning as a judge on music based reality show titled The Big Band. The show produced by Phat Phish is slated to go on air in the month of December on Doordarshan. This will be a 52 episode series and will air every Saturday and Sunday starting from December. According to sources, "This show will provide an opportunity to the independent artistes and as the title suggests this will be a hunt for the best band. The search will encompass seven countries including India, Bangladesh, Malaysia. The show will be a travelogue music show.” A.R. Rahman confirmed the news and said, "I am judging the show along with two other judges." Anand Surapur, Chairman Phat Phish, says, "I was sick of Bollywood stuff, there's lot of existing talent and there should be some space for them." When asked the reason for opting for Doordarshan, he said, "In the past, Doordarshan has produced some of the best serials, not to forget the fact that it is also one of the most viewed channels." The winner band will get a three-year recording contract with the production house along with a cash prize worth Rs 10 million. According to their official website Bigbandindia.com, the bands must have between two-10 members with at least one lead singer and must submit three tunes. The first tune has to be an original interpretation of a popular Bollywood, folk or regional piece. The second tune has to be based on the band's interpretation of A. R. Rahman's especially composed melody for the show (to be released on 24 October). In addition, the bands with original compositions stand a brighter chance to get an entry. Shortlisted bands will be invited to the first stage of audition where they will be asked to perform any of the three pieces by the judges.