The 5th edition of India’s International Groovefest (IIGF) 2023took place at Colombo’s esteemed Nelum Pokuna Theatre on November 18th and 19th, captivating the hearts of dance enthusiasts from Sri Lanka and India. This magnificent event showcased a spectacular array of 80 performances, featuring 14 awe-inspiring acts from Sri Lanka. Among these, the Lalith Perakum Dance Studio emerged as a major force as they set the stage alight with their energetic performances before the star studded panel of Indian celebrity judges that comprised of Sudha Chandran, Kumar Sharma and Master Sherif.
The brainchild ofaward winningIndian choreographer Megha Sampat, IIGF aims to unify cultures through the universal language of dance, creating 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.An elated Sampatdescribed IIGF as her dream project, uniting unique artists worldwide. The event attracted 1,188 contestants from 16 countries, a testament to its increasing popularity. Sampat expressed her satisfaction at IIGF’s successful Sri Lankan debut, marveling at the country’s incredible warmth and talent that played pivotal roles in the event’s success. She extended her 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 can be attributed to the resplendent costumes worn by Indian performers, adding a touch of glamour to the extravaganza. Rohan Joshi, India’s beloved anchor, charmed the audience with his captivating presentation style. Joshi expressed his delight in performing in Colombo, lauding the people’s warmth and talent and expressing eagerness for a swift return to Sri Lanka.
I Do Events successfully organised the event in collaboration with the multi talented Megha Sampat, the visionary dance director/choreographer, and founder of India’s International Groovefest (IIGF), alongside Pandyaas Entertainment from India. Sueann Moses, the 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. The climax 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.
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, 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 RashmiCategory 1st (duet freestyle 13-18 age group)6- Invincible dance School – Category 1s
Other performers who performed well although did not make it to the grand finale: 1- Dr. Udambara Sewwandi2- Sneha Hansara3- Iresha Pushpamali4- Oshadhi & Sanuki5- Mudra Nirmani Kalanikethan
