Meiyang Chang recalls 'Indian Idol 3' audition days in 2007 when Javed Akhtar gave him a 'yes'
Mumbai, May 31
Actor-singer-host Meiyang Chang took a trip down memory lane as he shared a blast from the past from his Indian Idol journey.
He revisited his 'Indian Idol 3' days and recalled the unforgettable moment when lyricist-poet, also the show's judge back then, Javed Akhtar gave him a coveted "yes" during the competition.
Sharing a series of black-and-white photographs from the reality show's theatre round held in Mumbai between April 26 and 28, 2007, Chang wrote, "Here's some nostalgia for you (and for me). Indian Idol Season 3! After the auditions, the chosen 225 nationwide converge for the Theatre round, 26-28th April 2007, NCPA Mumbai. The long corridors, the interminable waiting, the luggage on standby, the DRAMA! (Is that why they call it Theatre round?). (sic)"
Recalling a defining moment, Chang added, "BTW, this is the song I'd sung for the duet round. I have no memory of what else transpired during those 3 days except getting the 'YES' from Javed sahab at the very end. How does one ever forget THAT!"
The pictures showed a lot many contestants gathered in large groups inside the audition venue, anxiously awaiting their turn.
In one of tne pictures captured a young Chang can be seen sitting among fellow participants, while another featured him posing with co-contestant and eventual winner Prashant Tamang.
The post also included a glimpse of Chang's old 'Indian Idol' badge, bringing back memories from one of Indian television's most popular singing competitions.
It also featured a picture of the show's host Hussain Kuwajerwala and Mini Mathur.
For the uninitiated, the music reality show 'Indian Idol 3' aired in 2007 and that season was judged by Javed Akhtar, Anu Malik, Alisha Chinai and Udit Narayan, while Hussain Kuwajerwala and Mini Mathur served as hosts.
The season was eventually won by Prashant Tamang. The first season of the singing reality show was won by Abhijeet Sawant, while Sandeep Acharya emerged victorious in Season 2.
Over the years, Meiyang Chang has successfully reinvented himself as a singer, actor and television host.
Apart from songs such as 'Kya Yahi Pyaar Hai', he has appeared in films including 'Badmaash Company', 'Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!' and 'Sultan'. He went on to host many reality shows and award ceremonies.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I never knew he had such a rich history with Indian Idol. It's amazing how many talented people emerged from that show - Prashant Tamang, Abhijeet Sawant, and now Chang. But honestly, I think Chang's acting career has been even more impressive than his singing. His role in Detective Byomkesh Bakshy was fantastic!
As someone who grew up in the US but watched Indian Idol with my parents, this is so nostalgic. The theatre rounds were always the most stressful part of the competition. Javed Akhtar's feedback was legendary - he could make or break a contestant with just a few words. Chang earned that "yes" fair and square! 🙌
I have mixed feelings about this. While Chang is talented, I think Indian Idol has lost its charm over the years. The early seasons had such raw talent and genuine moments. Now it's all about TRPs and manufactured drama. Still, happy for Chang's success - he's worked hard to build a career beyond just being a reality show contestant.
These black-and-white photos are so vintage! 📸 It's incredible how much the Indian entertainment industry has changed since 2007. Social media didn't exist like it does now, so moments like getting a "yes" from Javed sahab were truly special and personal. Chang is a testament to how talent + persistence = success.
I remember when Chang was on Indian Idol - he had such a unique voice and personality. Javed Akhtar was right to give him a chance. But let's be honest
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