It’s one of those days when Mumbai can throw its hands up and cheer as the city’s hip-hop dance group Kings United India has been crowned winner of the third season of the US-based reality TV show World of Dance. The NBC show is judged by singer-actor Jennifer Lopez, rapper Ne-Yo and dancer Derek Hough.
But before we go into the laurels that were showered upon them, let us dig into the dance group’s history. In 2009, choreographer Suresh Mukund along with Vernon Monteiro formed the hip hop dance group Fictitious Dance Group. Initially, the group took part in reality shows such as Boogie Woogie, Entertainment Ke liye Kuch Bhi Karega, India’s Got Talent and so on.
To add another feather to their caps, Remo D’Souza’s film ABCD 2, starring Varun Dhawan and Shraddha Kapoor, is based on the story of this group. However, after the film was released Mukund's partner left the crew and the group split. Mukund then founded Kings United India with some old members and a few new additions.
Cut to 2019 and their performance at the World of Dance. For their final act, the group decked out as gladiators and presented a powerful act, full of death-defying stunts and well-choreographed and coordinated moves.Scoring a perfect 100, the group won the hearts of fans as well as 1 million dollars. The members took to Twitter to express their happiness.
Even celebrities like Farah Khan, AR Rahman and Varun Dhawan congratulated them on their achievement.
Suresh Mukund, the director/choreographer of the 14-member crew, said participating in the show and winning it has been a best experience of their lives.
"Tonight, is the night which each and every Indian is going to remember for life and feel proud seeing the Indian Flag flying high with the perfect score for our stellar performance... The journey of local dancers from the small gully of vasai Nallasopara to the world champions was really challenging filled with never ending hard work and dedication," he posted on Instagram.
Prior to "World of Dance", The Kings have also won the bronze medal at the World Hip Hop Championship 2015, San Diego. The were also the winner of India's Got Talent in 2011.
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