Shillong Boy Amit: singing sensation? Or potential instrumental variable?

Some pictures from the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya and Shillong, the capital of the state

The British had their regional colonial capital in Shillong - they, like me, were apparently completely enchanted by the brisk temperatures, overcast skies, and frequent drizzle. For people from England or Michigan, moist, cold weather is like a return to the womb. The British also thought Meghalaya looked a lot like Scotland, which I guess it does, in the vague sort of way that penne-is-to-Pad-Thai. But they proceeded to build a lot of exposed timber, "ye olde country shoppe" style buildings, like the church above.

In other important Shillong news, Amit Paul, runner-up on Indian Idol is a native of this fair city. And, oddly enough, the place I am going next, Darjeeling, is home to the winner of Indian Idol! Is, perhaps, Indian Idol success an important predictor of political mobilization for one's own state???? Or vice-versa???? Afterall, Indian Idol is based on the community working together to text message their local son to greatness. I just know there is amazing social science waiting to be done here. My advisor once used familiarity with Abba songs in a paper, so I think there is even a precedent.