What better way to start a season of the primetime American TV show, "So You Think You Can Dance" than with a Bollywood dance?! Last year in season 4, Nakul Dev Mahajan made his debut and choreographed a duet and group routine for the dancers. Nakul stirred up a buzz with the jhatkas and matkas he put into the Bollywood moves in his choreography. To the Desi audience, Nakul's choreography was lacking, but he appealed to the TV audience, probably because the western world is into all things Desi these days! For this season Nakul is a regular choreographer on the show. Nakul has stepped up his game and put forth a better routine for "Slumdog Millionaire" track, "Jai Ho" with more choreography and expression.
For this episode the top twenty dancers were all paired up and assigned different styles of dance and Jason and Caitlin were the lucky ones who were given Bollywood. The couple performed a semi-classical dance to the track 'Jai Ho' from 'Slumdog Millionaire'. Jason and Caitlin were nervous about the routine, but looked like they were having a great time.
Jason wore an Aladdin inspired outfit with gold pants and an open purple jacket. Caitlin donned a vibrant turquoise, red, and pink outfit. She wore traditional gold costume jewelry and wore it all quite well. Judge Mary Murphy says "I am so glad Bollywood came to Hollywood." The judges were amazed by the couples enthusiasm and energy. Nigel Lythgoe, judge and producer of the show, mentioned how proud he is to have recognized the Desi culture before the 'Slumdog Millionaire' hype and that he is also proud to have Nakul be a part of the 'So You Think You Can Dance' team.
"I am so glad Bollywood came to Hollywood"
Jason and Caitlin were not the only ones who shined last night. In fact, I think it is one of the strongest opening episodes ever! Jonathan and Karla performed a HOT Cha Cha to the track 'Pokerface' by Lady GaGa. Though neither of them were wearing latex they looked amazing in their white costumes. The Cha Cha is a Latin style of dance and one that may not be paired with pop music often, but this routine worked and received its praises from the judges. From choreography to chemistry, this couple had it all.
Phillip and Jeanine opened the show with their HipHop routine to Ne-Yo's track 'Mad' which showed emotion and technique as well. Wade Robson choreographed a Jazz routine for Kupono and Ashley. The story was of two crash test dummies and was absolutely mesmerizing.
Let's see what the choreographers and couples have for us next week, and let's see if Nakul choreographs another routine.
Let us know what you think of the 'Jai Ho' routine. Would you like to see any couple in particular dancing to Bollywood, how about a particular song? Leave us your comments below.
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