MUMBAI: Dancer- actor Shantanu recently made us proud with his crew Desi Hoppers by putting India on the world map by qualifying for Hollywood's biggest dance-reality show World of Dance. Well, Shantanu will now be seen in a different avatar as will gear up to host the third season of India's Best Dramebaaz. The show will air later this month.

A shy and a private person that Shantanu is, it will be interesting to see him host a fun show with an interesting ensemble of judges.

Shantanu is excited about sharing the stage with Sonali Bendre since they go back a long way.  Sharing his excitement, Shantanu said, “I was eight-years-old when I performed on a dance show which was hosted and judged by Sonali Bendre. I remember being so excited about it as she was a big childhood favourite of mine. I really loved the way she acted in Sarfarosh. Somehow, I would just happen to be a part of every show she was judging back then. She had complimented me for my act on the show and I remember her saying that I would go a long way with my determination and potential which she had seen in me. I am very excited to be sharing the screen space with her after so many years and I am absolutely looking forward to work with her again and this time, I won't be participating in it but hosting it."

What do you think of Shantanu Maheshwari and Sonali Bendre?

Touted as the chocolate boy on television, Shantanu emerged to be the winner of an adventure-based dance reality show. Shantanu, on earlier occasions, has hosted two shows but he believes this one to be quite different.  Speaking about his preparation for the show, Shantanu said, “I have hosted a couple of projects earlier and I quite enjoy the hosting space. It is something different and challenging. I am eagerly looking forward to this one as it’s a show with children on it. Children aren't very easy to deal with at times, as they are moody, shy and each child has been brought up differently. So yes, I can just be myself with them as well as explore different emotions, moods and themes. Understanding the kids and developing the bond with them is what I am going to take up as a challenging.”

“During a reality show, you get to be a part of their journeys, witness every high and low. It is somewhat a challenge to be able to build a connection and build a rapport with the contestants. Spontaneity plays a big role here and as an anchor, you have to keep the viewers entertained as you go about the show. I am thrilled about hosting this in front of Sonali Bendre and really plan to surprise her,” he concluded.