Indian Idol Season 9, which aired between December 2016 and April 2017, marked the return of the beloved singing reality show after a gap of four years. This season brought back the charm of discovering exceptional singing talent from across India, with contestants who captured the hearts of millions with their soulful voices and captivating performances. With an impressive lineup of judges, a seasoned host, and a stellar group of contestants, Season 9 lived up to its legacy of being a transformative platform for aspiring singers.
Here’s an in-depth look at Indian Idol Season 9, including the winner, runner-up, judges, host, and contestants who made the season unforgettable.
The Winner of Indian Idol Season 9 (2016): L. V. Revanth
The title of Indian Idol Season 9 was won by L. V. Revanth, a playback singer from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Known for his powerful voice and versatility, Revanth had already made a name for himself in the Telugu film industry before participating in the show.
Revanth’s consistent performances and his ability to effortlessly sing in multiple genres impressed both the judges and the audience. Despite language barriers—Hindi was not his first language—he delivered flawless renditions of Bollywood classics, showcasing his dedication and adaptability. Post his victory, Revanth continued his playback singing career, adding numerous accolades to his name.
The Runner-up of Indian Idol Season 9 (2016): Khuda Baksh
The runner-up of Season 9 was Khuda Baksh, a talented singer from Punjab. His soulful voice and unique ability to connect emotionally with his songs earned him immense popularity. Khuda’s journey on the show was marked by his consistent growth and heartfelt performances, which resonated deeply with the audience.
Although he narrowly missed the title, Khuda Baksh’s popularity soared, and he went on to perform in live concerts and gain recognition in the Indian music industry.
Second Runner-up: Rohit PVNS
Securing the third position was Rohit PVNS, another brilliant singer who brought classical finesse to the competition. His control over intricate compositions and his stage presence made him a standout contestant throughout the season.
The Judges Panel
Indian Idol Season 9 featured a dynamic and experienced panel of judges who played a significant role in mentoring and evaluating the contestants:
- Anu Malik: The veteran music composer returned to the show, bringing his sharp critiques and technical expertise to guide the contestants.
- Farah Khan: Renowned choreographer and filmmaker Farah Khan joined the panel, adding a focus on performance, stage presence, and overall entertainment value.
- Sonu Nigam: The celebrated playback singer made a much-anticipated return to Indian Idol as a judge after a long hiatus. His insights and encouragement inspired the contestants to push their limits.
The trio’s chemistry, expertise, and genuine mentorship created a nurturing environment for the contestants to flourish.
The Host: Karan Wahi
Karan Wahi, the charming television actor and anchor, took on hosting duties for Indian Idol Season 9. Known for his humor, wit, and friendly demeanor, Karan kept the energy high and ensured the audience stayed engaged throughout the season. His camaraderie with the contestants and judges added a fun element to the show.
The Contestants: A Talented Lineup
Indian Idol Season 9 introduced audiences to a group of exceptional singers, each with their unique style and journey. The top 10 contestants who captivated viewers included:
- L. V. Revanth (Winner)
- Khuda Baksh (Runner-up)
- Rohit PVNS (Second Runner-up)
- Hardeep Singh
- Manya Narang
- Maalavika Sundar
- Tajinder Singh
- R P Shravan
- Stutee Tiwari
- Bharti Gupta
These contestants represented diverse musical genres, making each episode a celebration of India’s rich musical heritage.
The Highlights and Legacy of Indian Idol Season 9
Indian Idol Season 9 stood out for its focus on raw, unfiltered talent and its ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level. The season’s winner, L. V. Revanth, became a shining example of how hard work and passion can overcome challenges, such as language barriers, to achieve greatness.
Khuda Baksh’s journey showcased the power of regional representation, as his fans from Punjab and across the nation rallied behind him. Similarly, contestants like Rohit PVNS and Maalavika Sundar added depth and diversity to the season, ensuring a rich musical experience for viewers.
The return of Sonu Nigam as a judge was a major highlight, as his expertise and charisma elevated the show’s credibility. The addition of Farah Khan brought a unique perspective to the judging panel, balancing technical critiques with performance aspects.
Conclusion
Indian Idol Season 9 was a remarkable season that reaffirmed the show’s legacy as a premier platform for discovering and nurturing exceptional singing talent. From L. V. Revanth’s inspiring victory to Khuda Baksh’s heartfelt performances, the season offered unforgettable moments that continue to resonate with fans.
As Indian Idol continues to evolve, Season 9 remains a testament to the transformative power of music and the dreams it inspires in countless aspiring artists across India
