Shillong: As the countdown to the declaration of Indian Idol 3 begins, the hearts and minds of Shillongites are full of prayers to see Amit Paul emerge as the winner on Sunday. The Greater Polo Shop Owners' Association performed an Agni Puja for the success of Amit on Thursday at Polo Parking lot.

Several priests gathered, offered supplications and thanksgiving to the Almighty for his blessings which helped the Shillong lad to reach the final round. The priests and devotees also prayed for the final victory of Amit to make Shillong and the rest of North East proud.

The head priest said that as Durga Puja - which symbolises victory - is approaching, they wanted Amit to defeat the rival and get the Indian Idol title. Various Puja committees have also erected the cut-outs of Amit Paul and appealed to the people to vote for him. 

Prayers were also with Amit throughout the contest. After he reached the danger zone during the contest, Amit was voted out once. However, thanks to the wild card entry, he returned with more vigour. The worry of Amit's fans is about the reports that he is trailing behind the rival, Prashant Tamang of Darjeeling.

Another concern is that not too many business houses are coming forward to provide financial assistance to put up free PCOs. More efforts are needed to vote for Amit Paul, according to the Chairman, Shillong Arts and Music Forum (SAMLF) JL Das, which is spearheading the campaign for Amit throughout the State.

The Merchants' Association of Barabazar will take out a rally on Friday to garner support.

The SAMLF has also decided to send a vehicle carrying only women to reach out to every locality of Shillong, canvassing for Amit.

Meanwhile, the family members of Amit conveyed their gratitude to the people of Meghalaya and the North East for their wholehearted support to Amit in his journey to become one of the most talented singers in the country. They also thanked the Government for making him as the Brand Ambassador for Peace, Communal Harmony and Excellence.

In separate statements, the Central Pula Committee, Shillong and Marwari Yuva Manch, Tura branch have extended support to Amit. The CPC urged all Puja committees of Greater Shillong to make neccessary arrangement in their respective areas for massive voting, both through landline and SMS. The CPC also contributed Rs 21,000 to the Shillong Arts and Music Lovers Forum for the relentless effort put up by its membes in this regard.

The Marwari body also urged all the branch members to vote Amit to success.