Arunachal dance battle draws national talent as breaking gains momentum after Olympic debut

Freestyle dancers and rappers from across the country gathered in Arunachal Pradesh for the grand finale of the third edition of the Battle competition, featuring showcase rounds and intense face-offs in breaking, hip-hop, popping and rap battles.

 

The event attracted participants from cities including Dibrugarh, Shillong and Mumbai, alongside performers from several other parts of the country. A large number of young spectators and dance enthusiasts attended the finale, where nationally recognised judges — Bedroc, Jasika, Poppin and Tickob Boy — evaluated the competitors.

 

The competition comes at a time when breaking is gaining wider recognition globally after making its Olympic debut at the 2024 Summer Olympics, marking the first appearance of dancesport at the Games.

 

Winners across categories included Aee Gee in the “Rap Your Style” section, Luis in hip-hop, Jin Indian in breaking and Funky Villain in popping.

 

Organiser and dancer Nangbia Chanda, who was also a finalist on the television show India's Got Talent, said the competition was first launched in 2016 before returning in 2022 after a six-year gap. He said the latest edition was organised without government support.

 

According to Chanda, the aim of the event is to provide a platform for freestyle dancers, rappers and breaking artists to showcase their talent and represent the state and the country at national and international levels.