MUMBAI: Khazana – A Festival of Ghazal, which is an annual concert that celebrates ghazals, today, launched the second edition of Khazana Artist Aloud Talent Hunt powered by Hungama in association with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited. It is India’s first and only talent hunt for ghazal singers.

In its second year, the talent hunt will welcome entries from international participants, besides Indian contestants, making it a global competition. Touted to be judged by renowned ghazal maestros like Pankaj Udhas, Anup Jalota, Talat Aziz, Rekha Bhardwaj, and Sudeep Banerjee, two winners will receive a chance to perform alongside famous ghazal singers at Khazana – A Festival of Ghazals on 26-27 July 2019 in Mumbai.

Speaking about the talent hunt, Hungama Digital Media vice president Soumini Sridhara Paul said, “Since its inception, Khazana has elevated itself as an annual phenomenon that celebrates the splendidness and glory of ghazals. As a platform that stands for independent content, we are honoured to have been associated with Khazana and for getting the chance to recognize young and aspiring talent in the country.  Last year, we received an overwhelming response from over 75 cities in India. With the contest opening up for international aspirants, we are certain that we’ll see remarkable participation this year too.”

Talking about the talent hunt, Pankaj Udhas said, “Khazana is extremely close to my heart. It is more than just a ghazal concert, it is homage to the exceptional art form that has been going on for ages and will remain for times to come. With Khazana Artist Aloud Talent Hunt, our effort is to identify and bring forth exceptional talent in ghazal singing.  In our second year, we aim to reach out to all the corners of the world and provide a stage to aspiring singers globally.”

Hungama Artist Aloud supports and promotes independent content, and Khazana – A Festival of Ghazals saw a phenomenal response last year with entries from over 75 cities in India.