True friends pop up in your life in the oddest of places and in the most unexpected ways — the sets of the music reality Show Indian Idol, for example! The 15 seasons that the Fremantle-produced show has been on air, has seen some of the deepest bonds develop between contestants, each chasing their own dreams but sharing one of the most exciting phases of their lives with strangers-turned-friends.
From shared laughter and hugs between rehearsals to late-night soul-baring conversations and pep talks, these special moments between friends have helped create bonds that have lasted long after the spotlight has moved away.
This Friendship Day, we celebrate these six unique friendships that have thrived on Indian Idol:
- From Competitors to Companions – Season 15
Both from Bengal, Manasi Ghosh and Subhajit Chakraborty proved that in a competition where every elimination and each note could make or break a dream, friendship always came first. They tackled nerves together, matched up to each other’s sense of humour and celebrated each other’s wins as their own. When Manasi was crowned the winner in the finale and Subhajit the runner-up, one could feel their mutual happiness.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7MXKCefVmU
- In Tune, In Sync Friendship – Season 15
That’s how you would describe the bond between Myscmme Bosu and Priyangshu Dutta. Their sizzling chemistry, shared glances and subtle encouragement during a romantic, soulful duet during the ‘Greatest Love Songs’ special episode, had the audience swooning all over them. One from Assam and the other from West Bengal — they found common ground in music. Their connection could be seen from a mile away with their mutual admiration making their joint performance electrifying.
- Most Unlikely Friendship – Season 14
Two boys coming from different corners of India — Utkarsh Wankhede from Maharashtra and Obom Tangu from Arunachal Pradesh — forged a deep friendship showing us that music has no borders, and neither does connection. These two talents leaned on each other when the cameras weren’t rolling offering encouragement and understanding, through the high-pressure competition.
Link: https://youtu.be/pRcGN7QftQw?si=ZavCQKyf75k27hQ8
- Crackling Chemistry Sizzling Performance – Season 10
Vibhor Parashar and Kunal Pandit set the state ablaze with their show-stopping performances, reflecting the comfort level their shared and the fun they have in each other’s company. Whether they were joking around backstage or cheering each other before a big performance, their crackling chemistry was unmistakable. Even after the show, they continue their friendship and work together in musical collaborations. Their support for each other on social media reminds us that friendship is key to successful creative partnerships.
Link: https://youtu.be/rhCKdzFQBIw?si=xvoY_dfbxuZJZWJH
- The Jai-Veeru Duo of Indian Idol 10
Salman Ali and Nitin Kumar weren’t just fierce finalists — they were best friends. Affectionately dubbed the ‘Jai & Veeru’ of the show, they were roommates and duet partners who were loved for their off-screen friendship as much as their on-stage talent. Nitin once said that competing alongside Salman made him better — not just vocally, but as a person. From sticking together in hotel rooms to performing in concerts and public stages post the show, this duo is celebrating what they’ve built together.
Link: https://youtu.be/y49GS9yYXb4?si=WPsrUjzoK4OPQuf3
- Playful Companionship – Season 12
Pawandeep Rajan and Mohd Danish entertained the audience with soulful music; while giving us a glimpse of the warm camaraderie they shared off stage. Their on-screen talent was matched by off-screen warmth and a playfulness that made people around them smile. Even after the show, they often post updates on their joint appearances and gigs.
Link: https://youtu.be/VuRT8LQ0178?si=z70OIPNGjkkB0g2P
This Friendship Day, we celebrate these bonds that transformed fierce competitors into loyal companions, all brought together by the universe through their common love for music!
