MUMBAI: At a time when most TV channels prefer to take the tried and tested route, here’s one that begs to differ.

After ‘Champions’ which showcases the many talents of differently-abled people, Malayalam GEC Surya TV has launched another unique show titled ‘Old is Gold’ which sets the stage for people aged 50 years and above to take to the microphone and display their singing talents to the world.

The 42-episode singing reality show premiered on 29 December last year and airs every Sunday at 9pm on the channel. It has 24 contestants – organized into four groups with six members each – competing for the Rs 25 lakh prize money with one participant booted out in each round. Anchored by Madonna and directed by Sonu Kumar, Malayalam singer-music composer M Jayachandran acts as mentor to the participants, who undergo rigorous four-day practice sessions with a professional voice trainer and orchestra to hone their singing skills before the shoot.

‘Old is Gold’ is produced in-house with nearly two episodes being shot every day. The channel is looking at SEC 4+ (ABCDE) as its TG. “The show breaks away from the oft-explored pool of showcasing only young people and gives an amazing platform to senior aspirants who have not got an opportunity to sing in their heyday,” says network head non fiction programming Aldam Jacob.

What’s more, the channel claims it has garnered a good response on digital platforms such as facebook where a majority of the visitors are youngsters. “The market is buzzing with positive energy and many are complimenting Surya for this path-breaking idea,” says Jacob.

Bheema Jewellers is the associate sponsor of the show on Surya TV. Meanwhile, the network plans to roll out the show in the other three southern states as well.