Bollywood hits keep US fit

Following the success of Slumdog Millionaire and many crossover and Hindi films, Bollywood music and dances seem to have caught the fancy of Americans. The latest to get on the bandwagon are US-based fitness studios, writes Mona
Bollywood dances, with all their jhatkas and peppy music, have struck a chord with millions across the globe. After swaying a large number, now they are taking the world’s fitness studios, especially in the US, by storm. These jhatkas provide a colourful and vigorous workout as well, which is why many Bollywood-style dance studios have sprung up in several US cities.


California-based Nakul Dev Mahajan has trained more than 3,000 students.

Bombay beats rock American shores
Indian beats and jhatkas are sweeping firangs off their feet. The invigorating rhythms, oozing vibrancy and the colourful stylish and sensual movements are pulling huge crowds. The craze has been growing exponentially on the US campuses. Says Jessica Lewis, an environmentalist on a visit to Chandigarh: “I did my graduation from Washington State University. Bhangra was a huge hit there. There were at least a couple of Indian groups and their shows were always sold out.” On what made them tick with American audience, she says, “I guess none of the American dances has the vibrancy and energy of bhangra.”