'Indian Idol has the complete package'

It seems like female contestants are finding it tough to stay on Indian Idol 5.

Kolkata girl Arpita Khan, 19 became the latest contestant leave the Idol stage on Monday, leaving behind only two girls in the competition.

Arpita had earlier participated in a number of reality shows on a regional (Bangla) channel.

Over to Arpita.

According to judge Sunidhi Chauhan you were improving with every song. So what went wrong?

The judges have always appreciated my performances but I was put in the danger zone for three consecutive episodes. I really don't know why the viewers did not vote for me. However, I would like to thank them for all their support.

How was your journey?

Indian Idol has the complete package. It has actually groomed us so well that now I have learnt how to speak to the media. I never expected that I would reach so far. A year ago I dreamt of singing on Indian idol and when it really happened I had to pinch myself to believe it. [Smiles]

Why did you participate in India Idol 5?

Actually I was grooming myself for national television. Regional reality shows gave me the confidence to audition for Idol. Plus I wanted to finish my Class 12 exams and then take part in Idol because it's difficult to balance both.

Who is your favourite judge on the show?

I have idolised Sunidhi Chauhan since my childhood, so yes, she is my favourite judge.

Who do you think will make it to the three?

Sreeram, Shivan and Sashi.

Any memorable moment you would like to share with us?

It was when I thought I was going to get eliminated. When I was just about to leave the stage, judge Salim Merchant told that I was selected.

Tell us more about yourself.

I am an only child. My father is a headmaster and my mother a housewife who used to sing earlier. I have been singing since my childhood and gave my first ever stage performance at the age of three.

What next?

I have to prepare for my BA first year examinations which fall on July 15. After that I will take music lessons, lose weight and groom myself to become playback singer.