Reality shows and particularly singing contests aim to showcase the best talent. While not all shows succeed in this task, the one binding factor is that often they provide a platform for participants from humble background. One such humble girl, Sumedha Karmahe of Chhattisgarh, is creating magic on the sets of Zee's Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007.

Even though the competition isn't over yet, Sumedha's talent has caught the attention of Bollywood bigwig Mahesh Bhatt and she's being hailed as the 'Barbie Doll of India'. The pretty songstress talks about her journey in an exclusive chat with Mayur Lookhar.

Can you describe your Sa Re Ga Ma Pa experience this far?
So far, it's been a joyful experience. However, I must admit that I've been a bit lucky. After my first performance, Bappi Lahiri has included me in Ek Lavya Gharana. In the second phase, I had to perform just once and was selected for the final round.

Did you expect to reach this far in Sa Re Ga Ma Pa?
When you are being appreciated week after week, it shouldn't come as a surprise. But as I stated earlier, being granted entry to the final after just couple of performances does help.

Are you upbeat about your chances of winning?
All the contestants are very good. They all have the potential to win the contest. Main bhi jeet sakhti soon (I too can win). Laughs!

Who do you consider as your toughest opponent?
As I mentioned before, all are good and no one's weak.

But there are few who you must be dreading.
Well, the likes of Raja and Anik have to be the favourites. Among the girls, Mouli is very good. She is a complete package.

Is there a fear that you being a non Mumbaikar, people may not vote for you?
Not really. In reality shows, you expect people to vote for contestants of their state. I'm sure people of Chhattisgarh will vote for me. However, at the end of the day, it's always the best candidate that shall win.

What do you think of the judges?
All of them are very good. Bappi Lahiri is very sweet. Obviously, I'm from his gharana. However, all are judges treat us as equals. They are always there to help us.

What about Himesh Reshammiya?
Himeshji aksar bahot busy rehte hai. (Himeshji is a very busy man). Pehle acche lagte the. Ab bahot ache lagte hai (Earlier, I liked him. Now, I like him very much).

What about Aditya (host)?
He is the friendliest host you'll ever come across. He makes us feel very comfortable on the sets.

Apparently, Ismail Darbar wasn't too pleased with the inclusion of regional winners Anik and Abhijeet. What is your take on this?
Well, it did take us by surprise. One fine day, they (Anik and Abhijeet) jumped on the show. Since it was very much a part of their contract, so it's fine. But I'd like to add, that they hold a slight advantage as they already been through such a competition.

Salmaan Khan paid visit to the show. What did he say to you?
He gave me 10 points the moment I arrived on stage. He's a very jovial person. We all enjoyed having him on the sets.

You truly must have been thrilled to get an offer from Mahesh Bhatt? Can you disclose the details?
Well, this did come to me as a complete surprise. I've been offered to sing in Maheshji's upcoming film called Jannat. Unfortunately, that's all I can reveal to you know. Apart form Mr.Bhatt, I'll also lend my voice to Bappi Lahiri's 'Ranjish'.

Have you met Mr.Bhatt? What did he say to you?
Abhi tak unse appointment fix nahi hui hai ( I haven't got an appointment with him yet). But we did have a telephonic conversation where he said that I've got a very innocent voice. Also, he told me to learn acting as well.

So, do you want to act as well?
As of now, I'm concentrating only on my singing. However, I wouldn't mind trying my hand at it.

You're already being touted as the Barbie doll of India. How do you react to it?
People call that because they think I've got both innocent looks and voice. However, I must confess that I'm not all that innocent. Laughs!

Could you please talk about your background?
I've been born and brought up in Chhattisgarh. Later, I moved to Chandigarh for my education. I was doing FY.BA in Chandigarh when Sa Re.. came my way.

So, how do you divide your time between education and singing?
Well, I've already dropped my year. I don't intend to study further as I've dedicated myself to singing. My family respects my decision. Without their support, I wouldn't here today.

Who's there in your family?
My father is school teacher in Chhattisgarh, mom's stays home. I have two elder sisters. One lives in Mumbai and the other in Chandigarh. I'm the youngest.

Does Sumedha have a special friend?
No. I don't have any boyfriend. Presently, I'm only concentrating on my career.