She can spot talent

Mona

For Renu Nagar, who played the role of a mini judge at the Indian Idol season 11 spot auditions on Thursday in tricity, it was not a mean feat. With more than 2,000 aspirants, it was a long day for her!

But, she loved it. This season 10 Indian Idol finalist though got the spot through silent auditions, she understands the fight and fright—standing hours in the queue, the value of those few minutes that separate you and fame. 

Happy to be in Chandigarh, as Renu took time out to speak to us, she was high on energy. “I love this place. The buland and surili awaaz of Punjab is what I share with my state, Rajasthan.”

With contestants vying for her attention, she shares, “I learned classical music for 18 years and a line from a contestant is enough to tell me if it’s worth the time or not,” she laughs. But then, there is performance anxiety. “If I see promise in someone, I try to make them comfortable and give them a chance to show their scale.”

Reality shows have been a game changer for her and Renu gives credit to her parents. “Where I come from, which is Alwar, girls are still married off in their teens. My friends and younger girls in my neighbourhood are already mothers. It is my parents who supported my dream and I am forever grateful.”

The reality game is huge, and she warns, “It’s as easy to lose it all as to gain, just in one instant.” Her mantra is to stay humble and stay rooted. All the love that one gets is as much for the talent as for the connect that one establishes with the audience. Always remember the tough days, how you dragged your family, spent hours in the queue as your hungry parents kept company through the ordeal. Once you reach a position because of your talent, keep giving your best.”