Singer and performer Parleen Gill, who rose to fame with the singing reality show Indian Idol 3, credits it for the fame and recognition he has received and continues to get from the audience. He also mentioned that it
He said, “It felt like a dream. I often say that during those days we were living in a completely different world. Back then we didn’t even know what dopamine meant, but we were definitely bursting with it 24/7. The show changed me forever in a very positive way. More importantly, it opened up an entirely new path for me professionally.”
“Coming from an army background, I had never imagined that singing could actually be pursued as a full-time career. And to begin that journey on such a massive platform was truly a blessing. I will always be grateful for that opportunity,” he added.
Parleen was one of the top ten finalists of his season, but he doesn’t have any regrets of not winning. He said, “I firmly believe that whatever happens, happens for a reason. Had I won the show, I might have been a completely different person today, living a very different life. But I genuinely love the version of myself that life has shaped. Every high and every low has contributed to who I am today, and for that I’m deeply grateful.”
Asked about the instant fame reality shows give, he feels they are good at giving a push, but everything else depends on the person too. He said, “I often compare a reality show to a small boat. It takes you from the shore and drops you a few kilometres into the sea. From there onwards, it’s completely up to you.”
“You can choose to keep swimming forward and explore the entire ocean, or you may struggle and drown, or simply swim back to the shore where you started. The show gives you visibility and a starting push, but sustaining a career ultimately depends on your own perseverance and choices,” he added.
In the year 2010, 2011 and 2012, Parleem even recorded several tracks for well-known music directors, however, at the last moment his voice was replaced by a more established singer. It made him realise that constantly chasing playback opportunities might not be the best use of his energy. He said, “Instead, I decided to focus on evolving as an artist and build my presence in the live performance space, which eventually offers both creative satisfaction and significant exposure.”
And he doesn’t miss not getting such opportunities too. He said, “I genuinely believe every experience, whether it feels like success or failure, plays a role in shaping us. I’m grateful that I experienced both at a relatively young age. Those lessons helped me grow stronger and clearer about the direction I wanted to take in life.”
But given a chance he would love to give his voice for Shah Rukh Khan. He said, “I admire him deeply because despite immense fame, he has remained grounded and incredibly hardworking. His intelligence, wit, and dedication to his craft are truly inspiring.”
He concluded by saying that Indian households are connected through music, and it’s important to stand out. “There are millions of talented singers. It’s simply impossible for everyone to get recognized by the masses. That’s why visibility matters, whether through reality shows, strong original music, or doing something unique that sets you apart. In today’s world, it’s important to bring something fresh to the table—something that hasn’t been seen or heard before,” Parleen ended.
