Mumbai: Sony Pictures Networks India has announced the first-ever international edition of Indian Idol, set to be filmed at Yas Island. Marking a historic milestone for the long-running music reality show, the special episode will bring the ‘Yaadon Ki Playlist’ experience to a global stage.
Adding to the scale of the episode, acclaimed playback singer and composer Madhubanti Bagchi will appear as a guest. Known for her versatility, Bagchi has lent her voice to popular tracks such as Aaj Ki Raat, Peelings and Shararat, along with several Bengali favourites.
Indian Idol has established itself as a premier platform for discovering and nurturing musical talent across India. The Yas Island special episode aims to elevate the show’s scale and energy, offering contestants exposure to an international setting. As one of the world’s leading entertainment and leisure destinations, Yas Island provides a fitting backdrop for a show built on ambition, spectacle and star-making moments.
Judge Vishal Dadlani adds, “Moments like these are defining for young emerging artists as they inspire confidence, sharpen ambition, and truly spotlight the scale at which Indian Idol operates. Given how widely Indian music today is being consumed, shared, and celebrated across the world, this special episode at Yas Island further exposes contestants to a larger stage, preparing them for the global music industry.”
Judge Badshah adds, “This special episode brings a whole new level of excitement for everyone. Indian music and talent are celebrated and followed across the globe and shooting the episodes in Yas Island will further boost the contestants’ confidence to new heights. Performing on a global stage will surely push them to raise their game.”
Host Aditya Narayan adds, “Indian Idol has continued to set new benchmarks in identifying and nurturing talent. The show has always celebrated dreams, and this international episode reflects how the show continues to grow in scale and ambition.”
The Yas Island special episodes of Indian Idol will air exclusively on Sony Entertainment Television and stream on Sony LIV on February 21 and 22, 2026, at 8:00 pm.
