Presented by Sony Entertainment Television, India, the third leg of Indian Idol which will commence on 4th May 2007 is barely a few days away. Even as we speak the battlefield is being prepared for the talent hunt with the organisers and contestants alike gearing up for it.

In an interaction with RadioandMusic.com's Money Sharma, Abhijeet Sawant, India's first Indian Idol, shared about his experience during and after the Idol and much more.

Here are excerpts from the conversation…

How did you come about to participate in the Indian Idol happen?

Advertisement is a potent medium of communication and it is though this I came to know about the Indian Idol. I have always aspired to become a professional singer and to me at that time, the contest seemed to be the perfect platform to showcase my talent.

What was your experience at the Indian Idol?

Indian Idol was a great experience in terms of the exposure that I got as well as all that I learnt from it. It was extremely hectic but it's all a package of being on a reality show especially of a scale as large as the Indian Idol.

To keep up with the image and expectations of being a contestant at the Idol, what kind of preparation did you put into it?

Initially, I just wanted to see where I stand in the industry. I have participated in numerous programmes and was quite confident that I would clear the initial few rounds. To my joy, I did clear the initial deciding rounds which encouraged me to better my performance in the next rounds. On the preparation front, I continued rehearsing whenever I got the time.

How has your life altered after becoming the first Indian Idol?

My life has definitely changed after the contest. I got almost all that I had dreamt of. Besides fame, my talent got recognized which is a reward for the hard work that I have put in.

What has the feedback been from the judges on your first album?

The judges have played an important role in the success of my album and I owe a lot to them. They have constantly guided and encouraged me and congratulated me on my album winning a hit on the charts.

Please share something about your forthcoming album.

Yes, I am coming up with my new solo album soon. The preparation is going well and we are all working hard on it. As of now, we haven't decided the name of album. This time again, I want to give all my fans Abhijeet Sawant's best and I hope the album will find favour with them.

Which Bollywood movie have you lent your voice to recently?

Mumbai .com is the upcoming movie for which I have recently. The song has been beautifully composed and I'm sure the audience will like it.

What are your views on the 3rd Indian Idol and what is your role in it.

This year Javed Akhtar is going to be in the jury which will add value to the competition as he will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the contest. As part of this year's Indian Idol, I would be part of the contestants to motivate and encourage them.

Your message to aspiring singers…

Believe in your self and God. Keep working hard, one day you will definitely get success. And remember, "Be confident, but don't be over confident"

Your message to our readers…

Hmmm… I would like to say thanks for all your kind support and love. And stay tuned for my next album.