MUMBAI: The season is here for reality hunts and gameshows and it is not just the private broadcasters that are keenly exploring these genres. Doordarshan will launch a talent hunt Kalakaarz on 13 November.

Kalakaarz, will be the national broadcaster's search for acting talent (remember Zee TV's Cinestar ki Khoj). DD National will telecast the show on Sundays at 9:30 pm.

"Doordarshan is looking at various options to take control of prime time. Films have been delivering for us on Fridays and Saturdays," says Prasar Bharati deputy director general Vijaya Laxmi Chhabra.

Kalakaarz is produced by Ajay Sharma's Unit Box. The property is being marketed by Prasar Bharti's marketing division in accordance with its decision to do away with the slot sale system and self market its shows. Kalakaarz slots have been given a price tag of Rs 60,000 per 10 seconds. Prasar Bharati has already roped in Clinic All Clear as the title sponsor.

DD has already kicked off its auditions for the preliminary rounds in 13 centres across the country. Prominent filmmaker Amol Palekar has been roped in as one of the expert judges. Two winners will be given roles in a DD serial as well as opportunities to act in films. Popular tube actors Hussain and Shradha Nigam will compere the show.

Chhabra said DD has incorporated the latest SMS technology for Kalakaarz, making it a complete interactive show. Aspirants have been given two short codes - KZ 4555 for all BSNL subscribers and KZ 455 for the rest - to register in the hunt.