With Zee Punjabi’s new show Antakshari, singer Master Saleem and Mannat Noor turn hosts

Sheetal

Antakshari, based on the format of the popular musical game, has roped in Punjabi singer Master Saleem and Mannat Noor as hosts.

With the pandemic affecting all and sundry, Saleem says, “We artistes were no different. As the pandemic has made us realise the importance of family, the show on Zee Punjabi celebrates just that. I learnt how to cook, worked on so many compositions but at the same time played online antakshari with fellow artistes from the industry. The biggest reason for signing up this project was to be able to provide a family show to the audience.”

Supporting him in the show is Mannat Noor, who sang Laung Laachi that has crossed the billion mark in viewership. She adds, “This show is a learning curve for me. Not only because I am anchoring a show for the very first time but because I have this opportunity to share the stage with one of the best singers, Master Saleem. I am a huge fan of his voice and each time he sings on the show, it is no less than a lesson.”

While the contestants can sing both Hindi and Punjabi songs, there will be four teams—Challa, Mahiya, Jugni and Jindua. Saleem adds, “I like the fact that unlike other shows, it is not making celebs compete with each other as teams but rather bringing common people to the foreground, with a common denominator which is their love for music. It will have different rounds to heat up the competition along with certain fun segments.”

Saleem, who declares 2021 will be the Year of Saleem, doesn’t feel that Punjabi music lacks anything. He adds, “I have done a song for the Katrina Kaif-starrer upcoming Bollywood movie Phone Booth. There are many releases scheduled this year, ranging from Sufi numbers to sad songs to romantic singles. Also, I wish to come up with a concept like Coke Studio.”

To go on air today at 7 pm