9X has launched a new song-and-dance reality show called Chak De Bachche, where children will compete for the title of a complete performer. The show will have 24 children from all over India, divided into two groups of 12 each. One group will represent small towns and the other, big cities.

The performances will be judged by Raveena Tandon [Images], choreographer-turned-director Ganesh Acharya and music directors Salim-Sulaiman. 

It will be hosted by Roshni Chopra along with Bhojpuri actor Manoj Tiwari, who makes his television debut here.

"I believe in doing something that is not only fun to watch but also has meaning," says Gajendra Singh, the show's producer-director. "All my shows have a vision. After having travelled through India during the course of my shows over the years, I kept asking myself, 'why not present a complete performer to India?' So I started the hunt for the complete performer, which culminated in Chak De Bachche."

"I love children, they are uncomplicated, the easiest and the best to work with," Raveena said, talking about what drew her to the film. "I was getting offers for many shows but what I liked about this one was that children from small towns will get a platform to showcase their talent."

Salim-Sulaiman, who have composed music for films like Chak De! India and Aaja Nachle, said, "This is a performance-oriented show with dancing and singing. Today's children not only possess immense talent but are also smart enough to utilise opportunities. The talent these kids have is amazing. We are judging their capabilities, pitch and taal and their overall expression, irrespective of where they are from. Earlier, parents wanted their children to concentrate only on academics but now, kids know how to balance studies with other activities. These kinds of shows will help the kids know what they want to excel at."

Chak De Bachche will premiere on March 28, and will be telecast on Fridays and Saturdays at 9 pm on 9X.

Text: Rajul Hegde