Indian Idol Season 10, which aired in 2018, was a landmark season for the iconic singing reality show. Returning with its signature blend of incredible talent and emotional stories, this season captured the hearts of millions across India. Featuring an experienced panel of judges, a dynamic host, and an extraordinary lineup of contestants, Indian Idol Season 10 upheld its legacy as a platform that discovers and nurtures remarkable singing talent from every corner of the country.
Here’s an in-depth look at Indian Idol Season 10, including the winner, runner-up, judges, host, and contestants who made the season a memorable musical journey.
The Winner of Indian Idol Season 10 (2018): Salman Ali
The crown of Indian Idol Season 10 went to Salman Ali, a phenomenal singer from Haryana. Known for his soulful voice and exceptional ability to render classical, folk, and contemporary music with equal finesse, Salman was a standout performer throughout the competition.
From the very beginning, Salman’s captivating performances won him widespread acclaim. His emotive singing style and mastery over complex compositions resonated deeply with both the judges and the audience. Post his victory, Salman went on to establish a successful playback singing career, contributing to Bollywood soundtracks and live music shows.
The Runner-up of Indian Idol Season 10 (2018): Ankush Bhardwaj
The runner-up of Indian Idol Season 10 was Ankush Bhardwaj, a talented singer from Himachal Pradesh. Ankush impressed the judges and viewers with his melodious voice and consistent performances. Despite facing personal challenges, including a medical condition affecting his eyesight, Ankush delivered flawless renditions and inspired millions with his determination and resilience.
Ankush’s journey on Indian Idol was marked by his versatility and ability to connect emotionally with his songs, making him a favorite among fans.
The Third Place: Neelanjana Ray
Neelanjana Ray, a young and gifted singer from West Bengal, secured the third position. Her classical training and mature singing style belied her age, and she became a standout performer with her impeccable renditions of both classical and contemporary songs.
The Judges Panel
Indian Idol Season 10 featured an exceptional lineup of judges who brought their expertise, warmth, and constructive feedback to the show:
- Neha Kakkar: Returning to Indian Idol as a judge, Neha brought her vibrant personality and relatable journey from being a contestant on the show to becoming one of India’s leading playback singers.
- Vishal Dadlani: The dynamic music composer and singer added his signature energy and technical expertise, mentoring the contestants with passion.
- Anu Malik: The veteran composer and longtime judge of Indian Idol brought his wealth of experience and candid critiques to guide the contestants.
The synergy among the judges created a nurturing yet challenging environment for the participants to grow as performers.
The Host: Maniesh Paul
Maniesh Paul, one of India’s most beloved television hosts, brought his trademark wit, humor, and charm to Indian Idol Season 10. His engaging interactions with contestants, judges, and the audience made the show even more entertaining. Maniesh’s ability to handle emotional moments with sensitivity and add fun to lighter segments kept viewers hooked throughout the season.
The Contestants: A Diverse Pool of Talent
Indian Idol Season 10 featured a diverse group of contestants who showcased incredible talent and dedication. The top contestants who captivated the audience included:
- Salman Ali (Winner)
- Ankush Bhardwaj (Runner-up)
- Neelanjana Ray (Third Place)
- Nitin Kumar: A folk singer who brought a unique flavor to the competition.
- Vibhor Parashar: Known for his energetic performances and dynamic vocal range.
- Kunal Pandit: A versatile singer with a knack for experimenting with different genres.
- Avanti Patel: A classically trained singer who impressed with her technical prowess.
- Sourabh Valmiki
- Renu Nagar
- Sonia Gazmer
Each contestant brought their unique style to the stage, making the competition both diverse and thrilling.
The Legacy of Indian Idol Season 10
Indian Idol Season 10 stood out for its incredible lineup of talent and inspiring stories. Salman Ali’s victory was celebrated as a win for classical and folk music, highlighting the importance of preserving India’s musical heritage. Ankush Bhardwaj’s journey inspired millions with his courage and determination, while young singers like Neelanjana Ray showcased the immense potential of the next generation.
The season also highlighted the emotional power of music, with contestants often dedicating their performances to their families, mentors, and loved ones. The heartfelt moments shared on stage created a strong connection between the participants and the audience.
The judges’ mentorship and Maniesh Paul’s engaging hosting style further enriched the viewing experience, ensuring Indian Idol Season 10 remained a cherished season for fans.
Conclusion
Indian Idol Season 10 was a musical extravaganza that celebrated talent, passion, and resilience. From Salman Ali’s breathtaking performances to Ankush Bhardwaj’s inspiring journey and Neelanjana Ray’s classical brilliance, the season showcased the best of Indian music.
With its blend of entertainment, emotional depth, and exceptional singing, Indian Idol Season 10 reaffirmed its place as one of India’s most beloved reality shows, inspiring countless aspiring singers to pursue their dreams.
