MUMBAI:  In a bid to nurture young talent in the country, Universal Music India has partnered with Max Life Insurance to launch ‘i-genius Young Singing Stars’ aiming to recognise and reward young singing talent in the country.

Commenting on the collaboration, Universal Music & EMI Music, South Asia managing director Devraj Sanyal said, “The i-genius Young Singing Stars initiative from Max Life Insurance is one where the return on emotional quotient clearly outweighs the brand’s requirement for a return on investment. At Universal Music, nothing matters more to us than finding the right talent; the younger the better. This platform is backed by great mentors Salim Merchant & Shraddha Sharma, a technology layer by Sensibol Technologies and a robust platform by Hungama.”

Collaborating on the venture to discover music stars in the making, Universal Music and Max Life Insurance will scout talented children between the ages of 8-11 years (i-genius Junior) and 12-15 years (i-genius Senior). Salim Merchant and Shraddha Sharma will feature as brand ambassadors and jury of the talent hunt. Winners will get a chance to be signed on by Universal Music India.

Commenting on becoming a brand ambassador, Salim Merchant said, “It brings me great pride to be a part of an initiative like this. Working with kids brings me great joy, and I am absolutely looking forward to mentoring them” 

Universal Music India will offer one lucky winner from each category an album contract. Also, four finalists from each category, win a singles contract with Universal Music for a compilation. Registrations to the talent contest are now open and will end on the 31 October 2014 , wherein those interested can register via IVR on 092500 32222 or visit the i-genius website www.igenius.org. The grand finale of Max Life Insurance i-genius Young Singing Stars is scheduled to take place in December.

Max Life Insurance CEO and managing director Rajesh Sud said, “We are glad that this property has become a legacy and reached out to over 20 lakh children across the country. The overwhelming response to all our i-genius initiatives in the past has prompted us to extend the programme in the field of music as well.”