India’s ‘Idol’ Recipe: Mix Small-Town Grit and Democracy

Like previous versions in the US and the UK, "India Idol" is a singing competition that has become a favorite part of popular culture. The show invites aspiring singers to display their life dreams and perform for a national television audience that then votes for its favorites. The Indian show has two distinct characteristics: Women do not win, and rural and isolated regions of the country participate vigorously, often voting in mass for their favorite hometown boy. The Idol craze appeals to youthful dreams and two types of hope - that even the marginalized can serve as arbiters of style and that society will reward individual talent regardless of background or status. – YaleGlobal