Sobstories are sold onreality showsfor TRPs: Avanti Patel

Former reality show contestant, singer Avanti Patel is aware that these shows tend to become like daily soaps, with contestants being told to harp on about their sob stories. However, she adds that there’s no escape from it as a participant.

“I had been a part of two singing reality shows. My experience has taught me a lot about the varied aspects of performing live, understanding how to use the mic on stage, and what all needs to be done to truly entertain your audience. We’ve to remember to take the stories and drama on these shows with a pinch of salt; they also have TRPs to worry about if they want to survive,” she says.

Having said that, Patel, who’s trained in Hindustani

Classical music, wants audiences to remember that the talent is not fake. “The music is real, the talent is real and there are no retakes. I’m very grateful to have had opportunities like these, the popularity it has given me is priceless,” she adds. The singer also notes that if one is a vocalist and wants to become popular, reality shows are the only platform for them to get visibility.

“Reality shows will give you that and more. However, they don’t guarantee work in the industry, nor do they teach you how to find your way in this difficult field,” says the 24-yearold, who recently launched her single Saiyaan Bina, which aims to normalise LGBTQIA+ narratives.

She feels that as a musician, one has to learn how to use this popularity to one’s advantage. “In today’s day and age, where a blue tick and a certain number of Instagram followers mean something, we must understand that we can use this to promote ourselves. The age of collaborations is here and artistes have to learn to support each other,” she asserts.

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM_ AVANTIPATELOFFICIAL