On Sunday 22 April, Metro Eireann contributor and MAMA Awards co-presenter Shalini Sinha was surprisingly voted off TV’s Celebrity Jigs ‘n’ Reels.
To many immigrants and Irish fans of Sinha, her departure from the show at this stage was unexpected. This is because some even tipped her to win the competition. The judges had earlier praised her, saying that she brought a bit of class to the competition – and that she can also dance. So why is it that someone of that calibre would then be voted out?
Whatever the reasons, Metro Eireann knows she will accept it in the spirit of sportsmanship. We know that looking back, she may have mixed feelings about the whole Jigs ‘n’ Reels show. However, it is our belief that her fans across Ireland, North and South, are delighted with her.
For us in Metro Eireann, we are particularly proud of Shalini Sinha’s achievement on the show. As far as we know, she is the first person of an immigrant background to slug it out with other stars on the Jigs ‘n’ Reels show. With no Irish background, she challenged and – until she was voted out – defeated many people who would have grown up much more aware of Irish dancing. Little wonder why the judges said she can dance!
Shalini Sinha’s achievement on the show has also brought an ethnic minority face into the mainstream. Metro Eireann believes that that’s a step forward for multicultural Ireland. It is an honour that every immigrant entering any competition should dream off.
Again, Metro Eireann says well done!
editor@metroeireann.com
