THE talented Vishalie Sookram of Black Bush Polder, Central Corentyne, Berbice has been declared winner of the E-Networks’ Emerging Voices singing competition which was aired last evening on E-Networks’ Channel 1 and on LRTV in Berbice.

Vishalie wooed celebrity judges Jeffrey Iqbal, Dr. Vindhya Persaud and Purnash Durgaprasad with her melodious renderings of the AR Rehman super hit song “Kehna Hi Kya” and the test piece of the competition: the Lata Mangeshkar classic “Mose Chal.”

The beautiful but petite singer, dressed in a red and white saree, delivered her songs effortlessly to thunderous applause from those present in the Studio.

She received a cheque for one million dollars, besides a trophy and a specially designed stone-encrusted microphone ornament. She was all smiles as she posed for photographs with her family, well-wishers and fellow contestants after the contest.

In second position was the other competition favourite, Artie Sookhai, who radiated confidence in her elegant attire of pink and turquoise saree, and wowed the audience with her energetic and lively performance of the folk melody “Ali More Angana.”

However, her composure visibly slipped when she stumbled in the middle of her second song – the test piece. Nevertheless, she has received a cheque for two hundred and fifty thousand dollars, plus a trophy.

Both Vishalie and Artie will benefit from six-week stints in India, inclusive of musical exposure and the opportunity to receive training, compliments of E-Networks.

The third position was captured by Gail Ann Singh, whose song choice was the popular Lalduppatta. She was appropriately bedecked in a beautiful gold lehenga and red dupatta, and both of her songs were well received by those present. Gail received a cheque for one hundred and fifty thousand dollars, besides a trophy.

Also performing on the Grand Finale were judges Jeffrey Iqbal and Purnash Durgaprasad, who generated much excitement with their spirited renditions of the classics Mast Kalandar and Chap Tilak. The Dharmic Nritya Sangh added their bit with a fabulous performance of a Marathi folk dance.

The show was hosted by the beautiful Zahrah Alli, and among the audience in studio were many of the contestants who had participated in the series.

The Grand Finale will be rebroadcast on NTN on Saturday at 20.00hrs, on Sunday at 14.00hrs, on MTV on Wednesday at 18.00hrs, and on E-Networks Channel 1. It is also posted to Youtube.

E-Networks launched reality television series “Emerging Voices” in an effort to unearth good voices, fresh talent, and energetic young performers who would give a boost to Guyana’s budding music industry.

Focusing on Hindi and Bollywood Music, auditions were held countrywide, following which twenty-two persons were selected by judges Jeffrey Iqbal, Purnash Durgaprasad and Dr. Vindhya Persaud to participate in the series.

An added bonus for all the participants has been the training provided by Bollywood playback singer Jeffrey Iqbal and Guyanese born outstanding singer Purnash Durgaprasad, who have worked long hours with the contestants to ensure that quality performances are delivered.

E-Networks has been supported in this venture by Torginol Paints, Sujata Curry Powder, NTN Television, and King’s Jewellery World.