Music shows on TV: Talent hunt or TRP-boosters?

doweshowbellyad=0; Prashant Tamang, the winner of TV music show Indian Idol -3 (TOI Photo)India is eating, drinking and sleeping music. Everyone has assumed the garb of a judge. The viewer is being spoilt with numerous choices. Who says that Indian Idol fever got over with the conclusion of the 2007 finale? Just switch on the TV and tune in to any channel - you will find hundreds of wannabe Abhijeet Sawants and Prashant Tamangs waiting for you to lend them your ears.
Did you miss the grand finale of one show? Not to worry, for a number of musical talent hunt shows in the name of reality TV are going on elsewhere. Right now, it's a win-win situation for all the TV channels, telecom companies, the participants and even the viewers. But the big question is: how many of the participants are recognised in the streets a year after the show? How many of them get a good break in the music world and make it big, barring a few exceptions? Are these shows a mere sham used to boost a channel’s television rating points (TRP) or are they a much-needed platform for aspiring singers? Post your comments here.