Doordarshan India’s only public service broadcaster today announced an innovative reality show “Bharat Ki Shaan – Rum Jhum” which see classical Indian dance forms compete with Western dances to be aired on DD National from 14th October, 2013.

Conceptualized and created by the pioneer of Reality shows in India Gajendra Singh, the show titled ‘Bharat ki Shaan - RUM JHUM, which is unique dance show is being developed by the living legend of Indian classical dance Dr. Sonal Mansingh.

On the occasion Mr. V.K. Jain ADG (Publicity) Doordarshan said, “We are very happy to produce, Bharat ki Shaan – Rum Jhum. With this show we wanted to expand Bharat ki Shaan in the form of dance. The concept of doing Indian vs. Non-Indian dance was conceptualized by our Respected Director General Shri. Tripurari Sharan ji. It was his idea to get the traditional &: contemporary Indian dance vs. other forms of Non-Indian dance to bring out the cultural values from different parts of the world.

Dr. Sonal Mansingh will also be seen for the first time on Indian television in Rum Jhum as the ‘Guru Shrestha’, the Supreme Judge. Honored with Padma Bhusan and Padma Vibhusan and revered the world over for her mastery over Odissi and Bharatnatyam and her interpretations of the classical in modern terms, Rum Jhum is an extension of Dr. Mansingh’s vision.

“It is a strategy for me to bridge the schism between the popular and pure arts. I hope the show doesn't only let the country discover new talents, but also discover dance in its diversity, richness and beauty,” Dr. Mansingh said.

Gajendra Singh, CMD Saaibaba Telefilms’, the Creator of Musical Reality shows in India, Talent Scout extraordinaire and a true visionary who revolutionized the Indian Television scenario by creating shows like Antakshari, SaReGaMa, Voice of India, Music Ka Maha Muqqabla and the recent hit Sur Kshetra. After pioneering musical reality shows, he will now step into the world of dance with this unique Dance reality show, Rum Jhum.

“All I can say is that am looking forward to the show just like my viewers who likewise are ardently waiting for its launch”, Mr. Singh said.

To do this, we have the honorable Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Padma Bhusan &: Padma Vibhusan as the Guru Shrestha and two expert judges Sandeep Soparkar, expert in Ballroom dance and Sandeep Mahavir, the very talented Kathak dancer and expert to groom and train and get the best of the dance. To execute this show we have a renowned production house Saaibaba TelefilmsPvt. Ltd. Led by Mr. Ganjendra Singh who introduced Reality TV Show in the form of Antakshari and Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa. We wish everyone all the very best for the show.

Sandip Soparrkar, the extremely well known dancer-choreographer of Latin and Ballroom dance forms, representing the non-Indian Dance forms said, “There is no other platform which gives prominence to Non-Indian Dance form in particular. I am extremely thrilled to be a part of this show. I am glad that Mr. Gajendra Singh offered me this wonderful opportunity. My best wishes are with all the contestants and our entire team. I am sure we will make a great show”.

Representing the Indian Dance forms is the young Kathak dancer-choreographer who is popularizing the Jaipur Gharana of Kathak the world over, Sandeep Mahavir. Commenting on the show he said, “Rumjhum is a big platform for me. Youngsters who want to make a career in this field can go places because of this platform. It is not a competition, it is a representation of two art forms. I am excited to see the audiences’ reaction. . I just hope that the upcoming talents and the contestants don’t have to struggle the way we have. These two dynamic personalities, as Captains of each team, will add an elevated dimension to the show.

The fascinating blend of Classical, Regional folk and Western music combined with Bollywood songs will keep the entertainment quotient always on a high.