The Indian Cultural Group have recently taken their talents to the big stage, performing at the BNZ Diwali celebrations. The celebrations included the Radio Tarana Bollywood Dance Competition, where the group claimed 1st place in the Rising Star category.
Practising three days a week for two months, as well as intensive rehearsals through the holidays, it was a tense dance-off for students. The competition had them dancing a range of styles, from semi-classical, bhangra, hip hop and kuthu.
“We were all pretty nervous, we were one of the only schools in our category, so we weren’t too sure how we’d place” said performer Matt Bailey.
Their nerves paid off and they claimed the title, a step up from their 2nd place finish last year.
Dhara Patel in Year 13 pointed out that “we weren’t really expecting the win. We were up against nine other dance schools, I didn’t realise we would beat them.”
The team were all proud of their placement, saying “We have loved every minute of our preparation from the laughs, stress, blood, and sweat put into bringing a heartful performance.”
Matt, a Year 12 student, has become an unintentional star after the performance, standing out with his blonde hair on the stage. His dance look has even featured in The New Zealand Herald’s lifestyle magazine, Viva.
He was encouraged by fellow student and dancer, Raūl Gounder, to join the Indian Cultural Group and Matt has since performed at Cultural Night, as well as the Bollywood Showdown earlier this year.
The team is excited to defend their title at next year’s competition – they have such a great dynamic that they’re planning to keep competing once they graduate!
“We’re like a family, it’s crazy how much we all get along,” said Dhara.
Congratulations and happy Diwali to you all!
