One would have thought that Zee TVs latest edition of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa would face a problem of overkill, what with it being launched just after the series on jodis, Ek Main Aur Ek Tu and Challenge 2005. But, the new series LiL Champs has managed to strike a chord with the audiences, turning it to be a winner, right from its initial stages.

And, among all the letters of appreciation the channel has received on the show, one comes from none other than former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. A man of the masses and firm in his political convictions, Vajpayee is known for his love for poetry and classical music.

In his letter, Vajpayee has congratulated the makers in showcasing kids with tremendous talent and giving them a platform that makes the world take notice of them and bring to the limelight Indian classical music.

Click for bigger pic

Speaking exclusively to Radio & Music Reporter, programming head Ashwini Yardi said, Getting a letter of appreciation from Atal Bihari Vajpayee is an honour and serves as a huge boost to the participating contestants to give it their best.

Speaking of getting good viewership numbers for the show, Yardi adds, Usually our experience with similar talent hunt shows is that it picks up good viewership numbers towards the end, but the response to this show has been stupendous right from the start. We have deliberately kept out public voting in the initial stages so that the kids are not traumatized by the pressures of getting public support or face rejection.

"These children are the future and it is our collective responsibility to give them an opportunity to get their talent noticed and nurtured to help them realize their ambition to become singers. This series, not only provides them with a platform but also inspires them to enjoy the appreciation by the public. Vajpayeejis letter shows us that we are on the right track and his words of encouragement are humbly accepted. says director Gajendrra Siingh.