Aftab elated over Rising Star 3 win

Neha Saini

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, June 11

The tension behind the wall, the meter that calculated audience’ love and the judges’ faces filled with immense support, it all came to an end with the grand finale of reality show Rising Star 3. Aftab Singh, who became popular as Chote Sultan on the show, clinched the trophy and took home a cash prize worth Rs 10 lakh while stealing the hearts of millions with his mesmerising voice.

Aftab, who was a favourite with the show’s judges Neeti Mohan, Shankar Mahadevan and Diljit Dosanjh, was in the city to interact with media post his win. Elated over his win, Aftab Singh said, “My journey on Rising Star has been incredible and it’s a dream come true. Every time I performed on the stage, I could hear my heart thumping but the thrill that it brought was unmatchable. The constant support and love from the judges and audience motivated me to perform better each time. I would like to thank all the esteemed experts for their honest feedback and words of encouragement. I also owe my victory to the audience who voted for me in large numbers and helped me win this prestigious show.”

Aftab was the youngest among the top four finalists. This soulful voice from Punjab, the 12-year-old mesmerised viewers with his music and even became the first one to receive tutorial from Shankar Mahadevan. He got an opportunity to sing with him at one of his concerts. Aftab’s biggest support was his father. “He has always stood by me and believed in my talent. He has struggled a lot in his life to provide for us. Now I got an opportunity to help him in my sister’s marriage with the prize money,” shared Aftab.

Coming from a humble background, Aftab even took up the responsibility of financially supporting his family and when Salman Khan heard about Aftab’s efforts, he offered to extend him his support financially. “It was a great gesture. He was my favourite guest on the show and I want to sing for him one day,” said Aftab.

Aftab was also one of the finalists in singing reality show SaReGaMaPa Lil champs. But Rising Star 3 win has been a ticket towards his dreams, said the Faridkot lad.