‘Please give us entry, give us work’: Indian Idol’s Abhijeet Sawant recalls struggle after winning in 2004

Abhijeet Sawant, who shot to fame in 2004 by clinching the title of Indian Idol, has opened up about the struggles of finding a footing in the playback singing industry. Despite earning fame and becoming a household name, winning did not open the gates for playback singing opportunity. Abotu 20 years later, he recalled how contestants from his generation found it difficult to find work in the industry.

In an interview with PTI, Sawant spoke about the challenges of entering the music business, the insecurity surrounding reality show fame and the criticism he continues to face. He is now returning as a contestant on Indian Idol Legends Return.

Abhijeet Sawant on the struggle to enter playback singing

Sawant said the playback singing industry was restrictive when he won the first season of Indian Idol. With established singers and music directors already dominating the field, newcomers had to work hard to get noticed. “Everything was set,” he said, explaining how contestants had to knock on doors and ask for opportunities. “Please give us entry, give us work,” he recalled telling the industry, speaking to PTI.


Although the reality show brought him recognition, it did not guarantee a place in playback singing. Contestants still had to find ways to establish themselves in a business where many key players already had their own teams and working relationships.

Why reality show contestants faced insecurity

The singer also pointed to another challenge: the growing popularity of reality show contestants made some people in the music industry feel insecure. Sawant said contestants had become so popular that some were perceived as becoming “bigger than even playback singers”. He described this as one of the positive and negative sides of their sudden fame, adding that everyone had to face and handle the situation.

Abhijeet Sawant on criticism after two decades

Even after more than 20 years in the industry, Sawant said he continues to encounter criticism and unsolicited advice. However, he has learnt to deal with it and concentrate on his work.

“People will taunt you,” he said, adding that some people try to teach others “right and wrong” despite lacking experience. He believes staying focused despite such treatment is important. For Sawant, the experience has also changed how he views success. “More than achieving something, the journey is the most important part,” he told PTI.