The much-anticipated fifteenth season of *Indian Idol* premiered on October 25, captivating audiences with its fresh line-up of remarkable talent and a dynamic panel of judges. Returning to their esteemed roles are the beloved Shreya Ghoshal and Vishal Dadlani, whose chemistry has been a staple of the show. They are joined this season by the talented rapper Badshah, who is making his debut as a judge, bringing a new and exciting perspective to the judging panel. During a recent engaging interview with *India Today Digital*, the judges indulged in a lively discussion, highlighting their diverse personalities and the unique dynamics they bring to the show, particularly Vishal's reputation as the strictest judge among them.
In a fun rapid-fire segment, Shreya Ghoshal, known for her warmth and encouragement, shared her candid observations about her fellow judges, emphasizing Vishal’s stern approach to judging. “He is too strict,” she revealed, adding with a touch of humor, “There have been a couple of occasions when the contestants have started crying. We then need to figure out how to calm them down.” Despite the emotional moments, Shreya was quick to point out that Vishal's strictness stems from his deep-rooted passion for music. “His honesty and directness are traits we all aim to uphold, but we also don’t want to discourage the contestants. If someone is not up to the mark, we encourage them to return next year with better training,” she explained, showcasing her commitment to nurturing aspiring singers.
When it came to identifying the "soft judge," Shreya promptly pointed to Badshah, who, in turn, praised her playful side with a laugh. “I have known of her, but we never got to meet or know each other well,” he remarked. “I remember once, when I was sitting with her, I realized that she is quite naughty. Bachon jaisi shararti hai (she is mischievous like a kid). I think that innocence makes her the artist that she is and also a pookie,” Badshah said, further adding to the light-hearted atmosphere. Their banter provided a glimpse into the camaraderie that exists among the judges, highlighting how they support and uplift each other.
The duo also shared their candid experiences of life on the set of *Indian Idol*, shedding light on the demanding schedule they face. Badshah humorously admitted that he tends to arrive late due to being a night owl, confessing, “I have a habit of staying up late, and it often affects my punctuality.” Despite this, both he and Shreya expressed how they often lose track of time when captivated by the incredible talent showcased by the contestants. “We might say that we want to wrap up because some days we shoot for 12 or 14 hours, and it’s hard at times,” Shreya explained. “But if the final artist is really good, we are rejuvenated and want to carry on,” showcasing their dedication to discovering and encouraging exceptional talent.
Discussing his first experience as a judge, Badshah reflected on his long-standing admiration for *Indian Idol*, revealing that he has been following the show since his teenage years. He acknowledged the immense pressure faced by contestants who perform live daily, stating, “I get goosebumps when I listen to them. The talent is just extraordinary. Also, the fact that I am sitting beside these stars is beyond my imagination.” He expressed his commitment to guiding and shaping the contestants, emphasizing the responsibility the judges carry in filtering the best talent. “Honestly, each one of them is so amazing and driven by passion,” Badshah remarked, recognizing the hard work and determination that aspiring singers bring to the competition. “This season, it's all about promoting 'play front' and not just 'playback.' We want to give a face to these voices,” he concluded, highlighting the importance of recognizing the artists behind the music.
As *Indian Idol 15* unfolds, the blend of Shreya Ghoshal's nurturing spirit, Vishal Dadlani's stern critique, and Badshah's engaging charm promises a captivating viewing experience. The show not only showcases remarkable talent but also maintains its tradition of heartfelt storytelling and musical excellence, reminding viewers of the emotional journeys that these aspiring artists embark on in pursuit of their dreams. With each episode, audiences can look forward to witnessing not just the singing prowess of the contestants, but also the authentic connections forged between the judges and the performers, ultimately celebrating the magic of music that unites them all. The interplay of rigorous feedback, playful banter, and genuine encouragement is set to make this season a memorable chapter in the *Indian Idol* legacy.
