Salim Merchant at the launch of i-genius Young Singing Star contest

<em>Max Life Insurance, one of India’s leading life insurance companies, recently launched the i-genius Young Singing Star contest with a view to recognising, rewarding and nurturing young singers in the country. Music composer Salim Merchant and singer Shraddha Sharma, the brand ambassadors, are on the jury of the initiative. The jury for the scholarship included Ruskin Bond, Sonal Mansingh, Neil O’Brien and Ashish Vohra.Andrew Scolt was the emcee at the function.</em> <br /><br /> Winners of the fourth edition of the scholarships, instituted to recognise and reward children who excel not just in academics, but in extracurricular activities as well, were also announced at the do. Scholarships of around `50 lakh were announced and 100 scholarships and 900 merit certificates given away in two categories: juniors (Classes III to V) and seniors (Classes VI to VIII). Shashwat Gupta in the senior category and Parinita Priyadarshi in the junior category won the top scholarships of `10 lakh each. <br /><br /> Rajesh Sud (CEO and MD, Max Life Insurance), said, “We’re glad i-genius has become a legacy and we’ve been able to reach out and support the young talent in India.” Anisha Motwani (Director and chief marketing officer), added, “The overwhelming response we have received to all our initiatives in the past has prompted us to extend the programme in the field of music. The i-genius Young Singing Stars has been designed to support the talented young singers of India.” Participation is open to children in two categories — junior (8-11 years) and senior (12-15 years), from government-recognised schools, including private, public and national open schools/home schools all over India. It is also open to NRI children residing in India for the duration of the programme. <br /><br /> Participants can register online at www.igenius.org or send an SMS to 5424243 and type ‘i-genius <child’s first="" name=""><child’s last="" name="">’. Physical registration forms are available at all Max Life offices. The above is to be followed by a one minute audio submission on IVR number +919250032222 or via an online widget on www.igenius.org. </child’s></child’s>