Seeing the life of a slum-dweller up close

UTV Bindass is launching a reality show titled The Big Switch on October 24. The show revolves around 10 kids in the age group of 19-23, picked from affluent backgrounds who will live with 10 youngsters from the slums.

The ten super-rich kids from Mumbai will be paired with the 10 not-so-rich kids. Each pair will try to outperform each other in the tasks allotted which range from selling trinkets and other wares at traffic signals to polishing shoes at railway stations. In addition to these tasks, they will also have to do regular household chores in a slum. The winner will get to take home Rs 10 lakh and also fulfill the wishes of one slum kid.

The show which is hosted by Genelia D'Souza will also feature celebrities like Priyanka Chopra who will interact with the contestants.

Some of the rich kids who have confirmed their participation in the show are Kunwar Harjinder Singh (Chairman of National Commission for Scheduled Castes Buta Singh's grandson), Adam Bedi (actor Kabir Bedi's son), Pooja Missra (model-turned-actress), Sunny Sara (son of Iqbal Sara, night club owner), and Nataasha Suri (former Miss India World) amongst others.

As for the slum kids, we start with Rekha Gaikwad, 19 who introduced herself as "the eldest amongst among two brothers. One brother is in college and the other is in school. My mother is a housewife and my father works as a sweeper in Regal Cinema," she said.

How did you learn about The Big Switch? 

I came to know about The Big Switch audition through my friend's friend. The co-ordinators had told them that they were looking for slum children for a reality show. My friend suggested my name to Ramadas sir (co-ordinator) and told me to meet him. He explained to me about the show and told that it's a great opportunity to be famous and also to earn money. My inner desires came out and decided to give the audition.

Can you describe the audition process?

I had my first round of auditions with a lady who was very sweet. I wasn't nervous at all because it was a normal conversation. The second round was the medical test and the third one a press conference.

Why did you take part in the show?

I have done a basic beautician course but couldn't do the advanced course because of financial problem. Now I know that doing this show can fulfill my dreams. I am sure they will pay me something to be on this show. Nobody will work for free for anyone. I don't know the exact amount but I will be paid some amount.

I failed my 10th examinations and couldn't continue my studies because my father was very ill. I am the eldest in the family and it was my responsibility to take care of everyone.

Do you think the rich kids can live your life?

I don't think so. It's easy for us to live their life but not the other way around. We always dream to become like them and not vice versa. So it's challenging for them to live our life. At least through this show they will come to know our problems.

What was your reaction when you were selected?

I would be lying if I say wasn't excited. I will be popular in the slum. I will also get to meet so many rich and famous people. I will get to see things which I have seen only on television and films. For example, I have seen expensive chandeliers only in films and television. Because of this show I am attending press conferences in big place and giving interviews. It's a nice feeling and a once in a lifetime experience.

How did your parents react?

My parents are very happy. I wanted to bring my mother to the press conference but it's against the terms and conditions of the show. I will be shooting for 45 days and hope to take her there someday.

Should you win, what would you do with the prize money?

I will keep some for myself, take care of my brother's education and give the rest to my parents.