MUMBAI: The first episode of the much-awaited singing reality show, Indian Idol Season 10 kick-started on 7 July in the city of joy, Kolkata.

While still in its audition rounds, the show was helmed by judges Vishal Dadlani, Anu Malik and Neha Kakkar and hosted by one of the renowned television names Maniesh Paul. Vishal Dadlani’s grand entry in a Bengali attire was one of the noteworthy highlights of episode one.

The first episode was a medley, filled with a lot of excitement and emotions. Also, the above-mentioned biggies, from the music industry, judging the show was one of the key reasons that kept us glued to the television sets, isn’t it?           

The show took quite twists and turns, where not only the judgment of the judges but also their way of appreciating the contestants made the episode – a must watch. There was one such moment when Anu Malik told the audience while addressing one contestant, “This is the first time when I have felt that ‘this contestant’ might become the Indian Idol.”

Also, there were times when the judges got emotional, as a contestant confessed about his mom sacrificing her singing career for him. While he was quite lucky to get a standing ovation from all the three judges, but that moment when Vishal Dadlani said, ‘Rongte Khade Hogaye’, was noteworthy as it brought an emotional connect to the show.

Besides, nostalgic moments were also showcased on the show, as Neha Kakkar was seen reminiscing about her journey in Indian Idol. She had started her singing career by becoming one of the contestants of this popular show. Also, the singers narrating their stories to the judges, added to the emotional quotient of the show, leaving everyone in tears.

The audition rounds also took a light turnover, when Anu Malik adding punch of some fun moments in between. He is the most awaited judge of this reality show as people just wait to see his funky side. He has also been the reason, people are still glued to Indian Idol. His Shayari is something people love him for and his sarcasm is what they seek.

When it comes to Neha Kakkar, the Oh Humsafar singer was so driven by the performance of a contestant that she stood on the judging desk and gave an ovation. She said, “If somebody makes me happy, I just can't control it.” Also, in spite of being a judge, Neha acted like one of us as she grooved to some ‘garba dance’ moves on the stage. She also sang Ooh La La in both the versions, for another exceptional singer, which became one of the key highlights of the show.

Overall the first episode was prodigious and a blend of everything we wanted to see. There was laughter, quirkiness, contestants who stole hearts and a lot of humor. In terms of concept, the show remains the same, while the background effect was kept simple.

When it comes to fashion, the show didn’t follow any specific theme. The judges attire made it loud and clear. But, host Maniesh Paul, who never fails to impress the audience with his jokes, donned some super-cool jackets.  

Indian Idol 10 promises to focus on what it stands for and with the first episode making its grand entry, we saw good talent coming on the stage.

Each season, Indian Idol makes a better comeback and so it has in its tenth outing. With the audition rounds still on, episode one was held in Kolkata and the second one was in Delhi.

Indian Idol 10 will be aired every weekend at 8:00 pm only on Sony Entertainment Television.

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