The pulsating rhythms of India’s International Groovefest (IIGF) 2023 reverberated within Colombo’s esteemed Nelum Pokuna Theatre on November 18th and 19th, weaving an entrancing tapestry that captivated the hearts of dance enthusiasts from Sri Lanka and India. This magnificent event showcased a breathtaking array of 80 performances, featuring 14 awe-inspiring acts from Sri Lanka. Among these, the Lalith Perakum Dance Studio emerged as a powerhouse, etching indelible impressions upon the audience and an illustrious panel of Indian celebrity judges.
Conceived by the esteemed choreographer Megha Sampat, IIGF set out to unify cultures through the universal language of dance, fostering a vibrant global community. With an illustrious 18-year tenure in the Indian Film Industry, Sampat envisioned a platform that would connect, educate, and showcase talents on an international stage.
IIGF 2023 descended upon Colombo, igniting the city’s passion for dance. Sampat, brimming with elation, described IIGF as her dream project, uniting latent talents worldwide and nurturing pathways for artistic growth. The event attracted 1,188 contestants from 16 countries, a testament to its burgeoning influence.
Speaking with Newsasia.lk, Sampat expressed profound satisfaction at IIGF’s triumphant Sri Lankan debut, marveling at the country’s incredible warmth and talent that played pivotal roles in the event’s success. She extended heartfelt gratitude to Sri Lankan friends for their invaluable support, noting the remarkable experience and talent discovered in Sri Lanka.
The Lalith Perakum Dance Studio, backed by luminaries Sudha Chandran, Kumar Sharma, and Master Sherif, exuded an electric stage presence, delivering awe-inspiring acrobatic displays that left the judges spellbound.
The event’s allure was further heightened by the resplendent costumes adorning the Indian performers, adding an additional layer of glamour to the already dazzling spectacle. Rohan Joshi, India’s beloved anchor, charmed the audience with his captivating presentation style. Speaking to Newsasia, Joshi expressed genuine delight in performing in Colombo, lauding the people’s warmth and talent and expressing eagerness for a swift return to Sri Lanka.
Behind this captivating spectacle stood the meticulous orchestration of I Do Events, in collaboration with the exceptionally talented Megha Sampat, the visionary dance director/choreographer, and founder of India’s International Groovefest (IIGF), alongside Pandyaas Entertainment from India. Sueann Moses, CEO of I Do Events, shared her jubilation at partnering with Pandyaas Entertainment, attributing IIGF’s resounding success in Sri Lanka to her team’s dedication alongside their Indian counterparts. Gratitude was extended to Newsasia.lk and Derana TV for their invaluable coverage of IIGF 2023.
The pinnacle of the event was the announcement of winners, where Lalith Perakum Dance Studio claimed the ultimate victory in the group performance category, securing the coveted trophy and a grand cash prize of INR 300,000. Additionally, several other exceptionally talented individuals and groups were celebrated for their remarkable prowess.
The IIGF 2023 WINNERS LIST –
Ultimate winners IIGF in group performance is Lalith Perakum Dance Studio. Winning the ultimate trophy and grand cash price of INR 300,000!
Duet category Grand Final runners up : PJ & Sonic
OTHER WINNERS –
1- Nuleni Edirisinghe – Category 1st (solo, Classical, after 7-12 category)
2- Dulmi Thimansa – Category 1st (Solo, Classical)
3- Natasha Shenali – Grand Final bronze winner (solo, semi classical, age 13-18 group)
4- Piraseen and Sujivan –
Category winners (duet freestyle 18+ age group)
5- Radika and Rashmi
Category 1st (duet freestyle 13-18 age group)
6- Invincible dance School – Category 1st
Other performers who performed well although did not make it to the grand finale
1- Dr. Udambara Sewwandi
2- Sneha Hansara
3- Iresha Pushpamali
4- Oshadhi & Sanuki
5- Mudra Nirmani Kalanikethan
( Nelum Buddhadasa / Pathum Wickramarathne )
