Lara Dutta, Javed Akhtar and A.R. Rahman in Mission Ustaad

For those who think small-screen entertainment and social commitment are like chalk and cheese, here is a show that is bound to raise an eyebrow or two. The new channel, 9X, has launched a music-based reality show which takes viewers beyond the studio ‘reality’ of mock-fights between judges and squabbles among participants. The show, called Mission Ustaad, is based on a theme no less serious than the United Nations Millennium Development Goals and is being supported by the UN itself.

“This is one of our initiatives to contribute to our country and make it a better place to live in. Besides entertaining millions, Mission Ustaad will communicate the essence of the Millennium Development Goals across the country,” says Indrani Mukerjea, promoter and group executive director, INX Media.

Eight singers are performing in pairs. Kailash Kher partners Mahalaxmi, Vasundhara Das is with Mohit Chauhan, Roop Kumar Rathod is paired with wife Sonali, while Naresh Iyer and Shweta Pandit make up the final pair.

Another big news is the presence of composer A.R. Rahman as one of the jury members, alongside lyricist Javed Akhtar and actress Lara Dutta. “I am convinced that the partnership between 9X, the UN and Endemol (the producer) will bring about the desired awakening among Indian viewers, and Mission Ustaad will touch the hearts of the nation in a very entertaining manner,” says Rahman.

“A musician is used to making songs on romance, heartbreak and loneliness. So writing on themes like eradicating poverty, women’s empowerment and children’s health is a challenge,” Mohit Chauhan, the lead vocalist of Silk Route, tells t2. “Spreading education to remote corners is vital,” says ghazal singer Sonali of her favourite theme among the eight UN goals.

The search for the ustaad jodi is being telecast every Friday and Saturday at 9pm on 9X.