Mumbai, Feb 14 (.) Indian Idol will hold its first-ever international episode at Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, marking a milestone for the long-running singing reality show.

The special episode, themed ‘Yaadon Ki Playlist’, will feature Indian playback singer and composer Madhubanti Bagchi as a guest. Bagchi is known for songs such as ‘Aaj Ki Raat’ from ‘Stree 2’, ‘Peelings’ from ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’, and ‘Shararat from Dhurandhar’, along with several Bengali tracks including Sesher Isharay and Bhalo Lege Jaay.

The show, which has served as a platform for emerging singers across India, will film the special episode at Yas Island, an international entertainment destination known for hosting large-scale events.

Judge Vishal Dadlani said, “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 added, “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 said, “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 episode marks the first time Indian Idol has filmed outside India since its launch.

. MI .