MUMBAI: X Factor is the singing reality show that will succeed the globally popular Idol brand on Sony Entertainment Television in India, and top Indian male playback singer Sonu Nigam will judge it, reportedly along with two other celebrities, while Aditya Narayan will anchor the show and conduct auditions for the show in Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Delhi, Lucknow, Indore and Mumbai, attended by live audiences in each city.

Aspirants aged 16 or more, who have it in them to capture the imagination of nation with music, will be taken into the Simon Colwell-developed X Factor, which gives every individual an opportunity to showcase their talent regardless of age, background. X Factor, which now has versions in every country and boasts of a unique format which allows every contestant over the age of sixteen to enter the auditions, is divided in three categories -- 16 to 25 years, above 25 years,  and individual groups, and candidates will be screened for their singing talent, attitude and star quality. A select few will land to instant stardom as the final selection happens before the judges and live crowds in mega concerts. Those contestants will be mentored by the judges – Sonu Nigam and, reportedly, Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Salim Merchant.

Reflecting on the upcoming show, Sonu Nigam said, I've been in the business of Musical reality shows for so long that I already feel like a Grand Daddy at the age of 37!  Having seen the beginning of so many new comers, who have become Super stars today, I am humbled at my sheer fortune. That's precisely why I refuse to endorse any and every show on television... My consent to being the first judge of X Factor is proof … of my faith in the format, the team involved, and the Channel. X Factor is a never-heard-of opportunity for people who strive to make a name in the world of music. Music, in India, today, has gone beyond the boundaries of film music. There are a variety of genres being heard and merged with each other -- fusion in the true sense. So many singers, bands and musicians trying to give music a new expression have come up today, and X Factor will give them the biggest platform ever to showcase their talent, attitude, passion and commitment....

S K Raj Barua, Managing Director of Fremantle Media India, which holds the license to the format, said, We … expect the show to be the biggest and best yet. Viewers will be thrilled to see some of the innovations and cutting edge technology integrated into this production, and we are excited to collaborate with Sony Entertainment Television, which has been an excellent home for the biggest reality shows. By tapping into the international and creative expertise of Fremantle Media's global network, we expect the show to set new benchmarks for all Singing Talent Shows and become one of the world's most inspiring brands....