Ticket to Bollywood

Sophie Choudry’s done a stint with the small screen before (no, we’re not talking about singing and dancing in her own hot music videos), rather, we’re referring to her being a lively, bubbly, chirpy veejay on a music channel. And although she didn’t take a break from it all, she admits to have been lying low of late. “If you’re asking where Sophie Choudry disappeared to of late, well, it’s just that I’ve been keeping too busy doing films and completing my new album,” she assures. But now she’s all set to spark our telly screens yet again with a reality show on the same music channel. She’s quick to add, though, that it’s not just another reality show. “It’s not your typical reality show; through this show, 17 youngsters will actually get to live their ultimate film fantasy. In other words, it’s a reality show that makes your dreams come real.” To further elaborate, this is a show in collaboration with a social networking website, that offers contestants the chance to become superstars aka their favourite superstars. Those shortlisted will be given an opportunity to outdo the Bollywood stars at what they do best — dance — and even have the chance to shoot an entire music video featuring themselves! “It’s not just about superficially being a superstar, the contestants will get an actual taste of superstardom; they will be put up in five-star hotels and will roam around in luxury cars. What’s more, they will personally interact with the same people (designers, make-up artists, choreographers) that their favourite stars work with, and will be trained, groomed and styled by them in order to make an exact recreation of a popular song video of their chosen star, where they will take centerstage,” explains Sophie. So, what’s Sophie's role in this ‘super’ show? “It is I who essentially puts the contestants in touch with all the important people. Basically, I’m the one who makes it all happen. And if and when the need arises, I’m also a shoulder for them to cry on.” But it’s not so much about losing and crying than about having fun, Bollywood ishtyle! ‘It’s a great concept because it finally gives a platform to small town youngsters who are dying to have a film experience. More importantly, it shows them first hand the dual side of being a celebrity; on the one hand are the arclights and the fame, while on the other is all the hard work. Besides, there’s no SMS voting, neither are there onstage judges. It’s the common man who will select their next superstar by voting on the site,” says Sophie. Now that she’s a pro at veejaying and anchoring and hosting shows on telly, does she want to take the next big step in the world of television — acting in serials? “No, not at all. I’m not interested in acting on television, for acting, I have my films. I agreed to do this mazaa-filled show only because I think I fit the image perfectly; afterall I’m the only veejay who mixes veejaying, music and Bollywood all in one!”