Kushal Paul, a 17-year-old from Kolkata, sang to victory on music reality show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, the grand finale of which was aired on Sunday night.
Paul, who was known as the rock star of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, was part of singer-composer Pritam Chakraborty’s team on the singing talent hunt show.
“Never in my wildest dream had I thought of such a big win,” Paul said in a statement.
For him, it was “unbelievable” to be holding the trophy — a goal, he said “each one of us have worked day and night for”.
Paul was presented the winner’s trophy and he also won himself a new Elite i20 — Hyundai.
“The show has given me a chance to meet and perform in front of legendary singers like Asha tai [Asha Bhosle], Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Kumar Sanu and I am really thankful to Zee TV for giving me this golden opportunity.
“I am also grateful to the audiences for having voted for me and showering me with so much love. But this journey wouldn’t have been the same without the guidance, support and love of my mentor, Pritam da. I want to dedicate this victory to my mentor and my family,” he added.
Chakraborty considers his mentee’s performances no less than that of a rock star. “This is a moment of great pride for me as I am a huge fan of his vocal talent and knew that he was winner-worthy right from the auditions phase. Kushal is not just a gifted singer but an exceptional performer with a magnetic stage presence.
“He has a long way to go and has a great career ahead of him in singing. Here’s wishing him and all our other contestants the best in their future endeavours,” said Chakraborty.
The guests of honour at the finals were Akash Thosar and Rinku Rajguru, the lead pair of Marathi movie Sairat, and singers Kailash Kher, Sukhwinder Singh, Armaan Malik and Benny Dayal.
Mentor Mika Singh performed popular songs including Dard-E-Dil, Mein Dardi Rab and Baar Baar Dekho. Mentors Sajid-Wajid and Chakraborty also performed.
