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Atif Aslam: I don't see Himesh as a competitor

Sahara One Television is all set to bring India and Pakistan together as they launch a new singing reality show Sur-Kshetra. The show will provide a platform for upcoming singers from India and Pakistan to showcase their talents.

Singers-turned-actors Himesh Reshammiya and Atif Aslam will captain the India and Pakistan teams of singers respectively. They are also going to judge the show.

Atif was recently in town to launch the show wher he spoke about the show and what it hopes to achieve.

There are a lot of reality singing shows. How is Sur-Kshetra going to be different?

This show is different because artists from both Pakistan and India are going to share the same platform. There will be a lot of cultural exchange and the Indian audience will come to know about Pakistan culture.

Also, the songs will be performed in a different manner, so it is going to be very interesting.

I will try to introduce contemporary music in the show. A lot of singers have tried it in Bollywood and other shows that have happened earlier, but I would like to present it in its true form and in a different manner.

'I just hope the show is not scripted'

Why did you decide to be a part of the show?

I want to get up close and personal with the audience. My fans and audiences have wanted to see me on television for a long time so I decided that this is a good platform.

I just hope that the show is not scripted.

Himesh Reshammiya is going to co-host the show. Professionally, do you see him as a competitor?

No, I don't see him as a competitor. I am a normal person and this show is all about friendship between the two nations and I don't believe in competition.

But since it's a reality show there will be some competition.

Competition should be there or else there won't be any entertainment for the participants, judges, and the audience.

In the past, we have seen celebrity judges fighting with each other. Can we expect it to happen again?

If there are any issues or comments with respect to the sentiments of the contestants, or religion, or the nation, and if they are worth a debate or a fight, then we will have a fight as everyone will want to have their say.

'I have got a lot of film offers'

A lot of Pakistani singers like Ali Zafar and Rahet Fateh Ali Khan, and actors like Veena Malik are making their mark in India. How do you look at this?

It feels good that a lot of people from Pakistan have had a good experience in India. I have known Ali since a long time. He has been a good friend and I am happy that he is doing so well. He is a fabulous actor. Rahetsaab is a class apart.

You recently made your debut as an actor in a Pakistani film. Have you got any offers from Bollywood?

I have got a lot of offers but I am looking for an interesting script. If I get an interesting script, I will surely do it. I just don't want to do cliche films.

'I don't have any idol'

Who has been your inspiration?

I am not inspired by anyone. I don't have any idol. I just follow the people around me and try and learn a few things.

Any plans to get married soon?

It will surely happen but I cannot predict when (smiles).