Agra, Aug 4 (IANS) Campaigning for Rakesh Maini has reached a frenzy in this Taj city since Agra’s popular devotional singer made it to the top three finalists in the “Indian Idol 5″ programme on Sony TV late Tuesday.
It gained further momentum when Sparsh Srivastav, the “Chak Dhoom Dhoom” champion, joined the voluntary groups and appealed for support to Rakesh.

Industry associations, merchants’ chambers, market committees, the Agra Vikas Manch and local media — all have joined hands to ensure that Rakesh returns home with the top honour.

“In schools, colleges, university campus, malls, and clubs, people are intensely debating his singing skills and how he fits the title of the romantic voice of India,” said Surendra Sharma, president of the Braj Mandal Heritage Conservation Society.

“For the Taj city residents, it is going to be some kind of a hat-trick, if he wins. The Taj was recently voted as the top destination in India, then we had Sparsh winning the ‘Chak Dhoom Dhoom’ title and now all eyes are focused on Rakesh Maini,” he added.

Special pujas have been held at various temples and banners and hoardings all over the city have been asking people to vote for Rakesh.

Rakesh’s sister Naina said: “Rakesh is only a few steps away. Please keep supporting him.”