Sony India Launches Devotional Singing Reality Show (EXCLUSIVE)

Sony Pictures Networks India’s Sony Marathi has unveiled “Kon Honar Maharashtracha Ladka Kirtankar,” the first reality competition show in India dedicated to the sacred art of kirtan (devotional singing).

The announcement was made during a ceremonial launch in Mumbai on March 25 by Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of the western Indian state of Maharashtra.

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The competition, premiering April 1, will feature 108 participants representing all 36 districts of Maharashtra, positioning the show as both entertainment and cultural preservation effort for this ancient devotional storytelling tradition.

“Maharashtra’s rich spiritual heritage has always been its strength – and kirtan is at the heart of that legacy,” Fadnavis said at the event. “It has educated, uplifted, and united generations through devotion and storytelling. I commend Sony Marathi for creating a platform that honors this tradition while bringing it to a new generation.”

The launch event itself transformed into a devotional celebration featuring a performance by Avadhoot Sudhir Gandhi. Adding gravitas to the proceedings, descendants of Maharashtra’s most revered saints —including representatives from the lineages of Sant Namdev, Sant Tukaram, and Sant Bahinabai — were honored during the ceremony, underscoring the show’s connections to authentic spiritual traditions.

Judging duties will fall to H.B.P. Radhatai Sanap and H.B.P. Jagannath Maharaj Patil, both recognized for their work using kirtan to raise social awareness. Renowned lyricist Ishwar Andhare will host the program.

“At Sony Pictures Networks India, we’re passionate about telling stories that resonate deeply and authentically,” said Gaurav Banerjee, MD & CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India. “‘Kon Honar Maharashtracha Ladka Kirtankar’ is more than just a show — it’s a celebration of Maharashtra’s spiritual legacy.”

To maintain cultural integrity, the production has enlisted Dr. Sadanand More, an acclaimed kirtan composer and scholar of Sant Sahitya, as a guide for the show.

Kirtan, which predates the printing press as a vehicle for spreading knowledge and devotion through lyrical storytelling, represents a unique intersection of spiritual practice and performance art. The show will air Monday through Saturday following its April premiere.

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