Mumbai, February 13, 2026: In a landmark moment for Indian television, Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) is taking its flagship singing reality show Indian Idol beyond national borders with its first-ever international edition. The special episode will be filmed at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, marking a historic expansion for one of India’s most iconic music reality shows.
Adding to the excitement, celebrated playback singer and composer Madhubanti Bagchi will appear as a special guest, elevating the “Yaadon Ki Playlist” theme with her powerful and versatile musical presence.
Indian Idol’s International Debut at Yas Island
For over two decades, Indian Idol has been a premier platform for discovering and nurturing exceptional singing talent across India. With this international edition, the show expands its global footprint, offering contestants the opportunity to perform on a world-class stage.
Yas Island Abu Dhabi, known as one of the world’s leading entertainment and leisure destinations, provides the perfect backdrop for this milestone episode. Home to award-winning theme parks, iconic attractions, and global live events, Yas Island aligns seamlessly with Indian Idol’s vision of scale, ambition, and spectacle.
The international setting enhances the show’s grandeur, giving participants exposure to a broader audience and reinforcing Indian music’s growing global influence.
Madhubanti Bagchi Joins as Special Guest
Renowned Indian playback singer Madhubanti Bagchi will grace the special episode. Known for her dynamic vocal range and versatility, Bagchi has delivered several chart-topping tracks, including:
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Aaj Ki Raat from Stree 2
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Peelings from Pushpa 2: The Rule
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Shararat from Dhurandhar
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Popular Bengali hits like Sesher Isharay and Bhalo Lege Jaay
Her presence is expected to bring a unique musical energy to the episode, inspiring contestants and audiences alike.
Judges React to Indian Idol’s Global Stage
Judge Vishal Dadlani described the international edition as a defining moment for emerging artists.
“Performing on a global platform boosts confidence and sharpens ambition. With Indian music gaining international popularity, this Yas Island episode prepares contestants for the global music industry,” he said.
Judge Badshah echoed the sentiment, highlighting how Indian talent is celebrated worldwide.
“Indian music is followed globally. Shooting at Yas Island will elevate the contestants’ confidence and push them to raise their game,” he noted.
Host Aditya Narayan emphasized that the international edition reflects the show’s continued evolution.
“Indian Idol has always celebrated dreams and nurtured talent. This global episode showcases the growing scale and ambition of the show,” he added.
Indian Music’s Expanding Global Footprint
Indian Idol’s international edition comes at a time when Indian music is gaining unprecedented global traction through streaming platforms, international collaborations, and digital consumption trends.
By hosting a special episode at Yas Island, Sony Pictures Networks India strengthens the show’s global positioning and reinforces its commitment to providing contestants with international exposure.
A New Chapter for Indian Idol
The Yas Island edition represents more than just a location change—it signals Indian Idol’s next phase as a globally recognized platform for music talent.
With its combination of world-class staging, renowned guest appearances, and a growing international audience, Indian Idol continues to set new benchmarks in India’s reality television landscape.
