Optimistic 'Closeup 1' finalists

(L-R) Kishor, Ronti, Salma, Nishita and Muhin.

The competition will heat up tonight at 9:25 on ntv. A conversation with the participants reveals their hopes and aspirations.

Salma Akhter:

Salma a folk singer from Kushtia is the youngest of all finalists. "I am comfortable singing folk songs especially Lalon songs. But I have also performed adhunik and pop songs at the competition. Since I had no experience in singing with drums and other western instruments, the band music round was tough for me," she says. Salma received the highest number of public votes in the last round.

Kishor Das:

Currently Das is pursuing Bachelors in Business Administration at a private university in Chittagong. About the show he says, “I want to take up singing as a career so my studies are not that important at the moment. But being confident isn't enough. I also need public support. However, if I don't win the title, I won't lose confidence. Through the show people will know me and this familiarity will help me to move forward.”

Nishita Barua:

Nishita is currently studying at Chittagong College. Sharing a memorable incident in the show, she says, "During the competition in the selection round I was in the waiting list. But later I got the opportunity to compete in the finals. The feeling of being in the top five is beyond words. My aim is to be a playback singer."

Ronty Das:

Ronty has already made a great impression on the judges. She was one of the top 40 participants in last year's Closeup 1 competition and is participating again this year with full confidence. On her hopes and aspirations, she says, "I think this year I will be able to overcome my earlier drawbacks and move forward from where I stopped last year. I don't fancy fame or money and just want to perform to the best of my abilities."

KM Abdullah Al Mortuza (Muhin):

Muhin grew up in Rajshahi and is currently studying in Business Administration. He was eliminated from the selection round in the last year's Closeup 1 competition. Asked about his experience at the competition, he says, "I'm only thinking of my singing and how to do my best. I never thought I would be singing for millions, including some of the biggest musicians and stars. It is a dream comes true."