“It’s a proud moment for us as the world will sing our (Bollywood) songs,” quipped Shekhar Ravjiani as he settled down for an interview with us at the press launch of Dil Hai Hindustani. The singing reality show, produced by Frames Production and to be aired on Star Plus, will have popular singers Shekhar, Badshah and Shalmalee Kholgade as judges. Joining them would be filmmaker Karan Johar as the maha judge. “Music has a universal language and we will have contestants participating from across the globe. It is a great means to connect and also bring forward some of the best talents. When we had foreigners singing Hindi songs, it brought in a warm vibe and I was so proud of our culture, music and film industry. It has touched so many and will continue to do so,” he added. Having been a part of different reality shows (Indian Idol, The Voice India), Shekhar feels that every channel and production house has its own strength to make a hit series. “The talent is phenomenal in the country and such projects are really important to give them a platform. I had a wonderful time being a part of all of them. Ranjeet Thakur (Producer-Frames) is an old friend and when he asked me to come on-board for Dil Hai... I had no reason to say no. He has been producing reality series for a while now and Star Plus has a great reach. I am sure my stint with this series will be amazing.” Earlier, there was a boom of music videos, but the trend has died. Stating that now YouTube and other digital platforms give a chance for artists to release their singles, the music composer remarked, “I think the internet gives a good push to singles and new artists. The industry has massive opportunities and it’s a great phase to be at. Be it launching their own songs to getting opportunities through reality shows, the new age singers get a great outlook.” Wishing Shekhar and the Dil Hai Hindustani team a great luck ahead!