Indian Idol mania is reaching its crescendo as the popular music contests nears its end this week. This time, both the finalists from 'Indian Idol 3' hail from the North-East. Idol fever has hit so high that its turned into an all out Darjeeling versus Shillong SMS war.

The 'Indian Idol 3' competition now down to the wire between Prashant Tamang (left) and Amit Paul (right).

It is becoming increasingly familiar on the streets of Shillong and Darjeeling as the Indian Idol final draws closer. Hysterical fans of all ages women and children are making it sure those sms' are pouring in for the contestant of their choice. With the competition now down to the wire between Prashant Tamang and Amit Paul, the hills as they say have indeed come alive with the sound of music.

With everyone from John and Bips to Sanjay Dutt and Riteish Deshmukh casting their vote and Amit and Prashant are the cynosure of the nation's eyes.

Amit's mother says, "He never even told us that he had been going to Mumbai. He just went to Mumbai for a month and then called and told us to pray for him. " With the finals all set for Sunday September 23, the suspense will finally be over and reveal the who actually is 'Bharat ki shaan'.