28th November, 2024
19th December, 2014Max Life Insurance, one of the leading life insurers in India and leading music label Universal Music India, yesterday concluded a spectacular ‘i-genius Young Singing Stars’ event in Mumbai. The grand finale witnessed outstanding performances by the 10 finalists. The event saw several notable personalities attend to support the talented finalists from various states including Shaan, Kavita Seth, Kanika Kapoor and also Salim Merchant and Shraddha Sharma who mentored the young singers. The evening was a joyful affair as the 10 finalists gave spell-binding performances before a star studded jury including, Salim Merchant & Shraddha Sharma. Adding to the high spirits of the event were the popular acapella band, Raaga Trippin who performed to a selection of classic as well as contemporary songs.
Chosen from 1.26 lakhs participants, the two winners Shivam Ahuja (Junior category) and Shraddha Shree (Senior category) won an album contract whilst the 8 finalists won ‘single song’ contract with Universal Music Group.
Launched as a nationwide search for young singing talent, this unique competition provided a unique platform for aspiring and talented young singing stars, giving children aged between 8- 15 years the opportunity showcase their singing skills before some of the stalwarts in the industry.
Commenting on the programme Mr. Rajesh Sud CEO and Managing Director, Max Life Insurance said, “We believe that nurturing young talent is the best investment one can make to build a secure and brighter future for India. We had launched the i-genius programme in 2010 and are glad that this property has become a benchmark initiative in the country to recognize young talent. Since its inception, we have connected with over 20 lakh children across the country through our i-genius Scholarship and Young Authors Hunt programme and we hope to contribute towards nurturing the imagination of the young minds. We feel privileged today as we conclude the i-genius Young Singing Stars.”
Speaking on the occasion, Ms Anisha Motwani, Director & Chief Marketing Officer said, “i-genius Young Singing Stars is a unique programme that celebrates, recognizes and rewards young talent. We had decided that this platform will be available to all children who dream big and aspire to achieve greater heights. Out of 1.26 lakh entries, 9,000 plus entries were by under-privileged children as a result of a special inclusion drive conducted by Max Life in 7 cities. It gives us a feeling of satisfaction when we see these children coming one step closer to their dreams.”
Commenting on the occasion, Devraj Sanyal, Managing Director - Universal Music Group and EMI South Asia said "This is the most amazing talent I have witnessed in my career. These Young Singing Stars are truly the future of India and we at Universal & EMI are proud to be an integral part of the process of discovering and nurturing these future stars. I am excited and eagerly waiting to start recording their albums and singles and introduce these Young Singing Stars to the world at large."
Road to Stardom
‘i-genius Young Singing Stars aims to recognize, reward and nurture young singing talent in the country in association with Universal Music Group. India’s musical sensations Salim Merchant and Shraddha Sharma are the brand ambassadors and jury for this programme. Theparticipation for I genius Young Singing Stars was open to all children from 8 years to 15 year of age in two categories: I genius Junior - 8 – 11 yrs and i-genius Senior - 12-15 yrs, from government-recognized schools including private, public or national open schools/home schools all over India and also NRI kids, resident in India for the duration of the programme. The programme was designed in four phases-:
