by Subhash K Jha

Recent efforts to spruce up the music contests with star guests has now turned corner. The major channels have now decided to opt for singers or composers rather than go for film stars.

Says Gajendra Singh of Ek Main Sur Ek Tu, "It's true that actors ensure more viewers. But of late we've been having some problems getting them to agree. And even when they do agree they create problems."

According to sources at Sony Entertainment an actor who's down and out but was very high-profile until lately, shot for Indian Idol. "But he demanded a particular sandwich and milk shake and held up the shooting until they were obtained from the other end of town."

To avoid star tantrums the music contests are now getting musicians rather than actors. After Vishal-Shekhar this week on Indian Idol it's Alka Yagnik on Zee's Ek Main Aur Ek Tu.

Says Gajendra Singh, "We've always had wonderful experiences with Alkaji. Whenever she came on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa she brought her knowledge and grace with her, and made the contestants feel completely at home. The same is true on Ek Main Aur Ek Tu."