The Kings, a 14-member dance group from Mumbai, conquered the hearts of celebrity judges Jennifer Lopez, Ne-Yo and Derek Hough and emerged the winner of NBC’s American reality contest “World of Dance.”
The winners — who performed warrior style to the song ‘Yeh Raat’ — took home the coveted $1 million cash prize after beating finalists including a hip-hop group from the Philippines and sister duo Ellie and Ava.
Founded by Suresh Mukund, the Kings are no stranger to fame in India. The energetic group won season three of “India’s Got Talent” in 2011 and are experts in the Bollywood hip-hop style dance.
Their winning dance had them dress up as warriors in gold and their dance sequence was an energetic, action and war-driven choreography.
“You manifest what you believe in and tonight you were amazing... You surprised me tonight. You came up with a different narrative,” said Lopez after watching their turn on stage. The judges compared their winning act to the excitement that you derive from going on a roller coaster or a great action film.
In the qualifying rounds, The Kings brought Bollywood to the West with their dance interpretation of actor Ranveer Singh’s hit number “Tattad” from the film “Goliyon Ki Ramleela Rasleela.”
Impressed by The Kings’ finale performance, judges Jennifer Lopez, Derek Hough and Ne-Yo gave them a standing ovation and a perfect 100 score.
The third season of World of Dance premiered on Feb 26. It is shot at the Universal Studios in University City, CA.