Horror time!

Meiyang Chang

Meiyang Chang is all set to host India's first ever horror-reality show of its own. Judging from the way horror movies draw crowds, this show is likely to garner great TRPs for UTV Bindass too. In this interview, the “Indian Idol” discovery says he was initially reluctant to take up the offer, and goes on to unwrap some very interesting facts about spirits. Read on:

Tell us something more about the new horror reality show, “The Chair”

When I was approached for the show, my first reaction was ‘bizarre'. I am myself a ninety percent non-believer in things like ghosts and spirits. But my curiosity levels made me clinch the offer. As we started finalising the locations, I myself felt uncomfortable and experienced strange things at some places. The show is different as there is no acting but real-life situations and emotions felt by the participants.

What is the concept of show?

The show has a very innovative concept. We'd be short-listing 13 contestants who'd be kept in the most ‘haunted' locations by popular belief on their own with no human presence around them. The one who lasts would get to sit on the chair and speak to the dead. Through the show, we are trying to find the stories behind these haunted spots. I will be there as the people's voice raising questions on behalf of the audience.

A dentist, a reality show contestant, a show host and an actor. – you have come along way. What's next is on the platter?

At every point in life, I have been a typical confused guy. My role in “Badmaash Company” and the show both restrict me to maintain a low key demeanour which I am not in real life. So I would call myself lucky as I have been thrown in situations that have taken me out of my comfort zone and enabled me to grow as an artiste. My “Indian Idol” stint has been the highest point in my career and made me realise of what I'm capable of. Although acting is my topmost priority right now, I want to manage all three of them side by side if possible. I also want to focus more on my singing as it helps me to be a better person than I am.

Many of the reality show winners either fade away or are forced to go back to their respective professions due to lack of work. Do you think reality shows have become a one-time erstwhile phenomenon now?

I don't think it's the lack of work but the industry scenario which has caused this. A decade back only, singers like Lucky Ali, Pankaj Udhas were a huge hit. There is a huge dearth of pop music right now. Bollywood, being a visuals-driven industry, unfortunately gives more credit to music directors than playback singers. A career in music demands complete dedication which not everyone is capable of. So I'd say, it's all about being at the right place at the right time.

Have you accepted any movie offers after “Badmaash Company”?

A movie on China-Tibet conflict is in the pipeline. I was also offered a chance to be a contestant on “Fear Factor” but couldn't accept because of hectic schedules.