After the Indian Premier League, it’s now time for Dance Premier League. t2 caught up with umpire-mentor Shiamak Davar…

Where does Shiamak Davar fit in Dance Premier League?

I basically play the role of an umpire. When the judges are in a fix regarding a performance, the final veto to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ rests with me. Each zone has its own choreographers, some of whom have been chosen from my dance school itself (smiles). I also play the role of a mentor, advising them on moves and strategy.

What is the basic format of Dance Premier League?

Well, it is the maha muqabla of dance. There have been numerous dance shows on television, but DPL will take the reality dance show format to the next level. Besides performers from the four zones of the country, we also have a number of NRIs participating. Bollywood stars like Salman Khan, Bipasha Basu and Kareena Kapoor are lending their support to the show. Besides, well-known choreographers like Pappu-Mallu and Harshal-Vitthal are in DPL.

What has your experience been so far?

Dance is my life so obviously I am having a great time on the show. It’s a blast being with (judge) Arshad (Warsi). We have already shot with Salman and that was a lot of fun too. I hope the show gives the country some very good dancers.

What are you looking for in the contestants?

First and foremost, great choreography. I haven’t been disappointed so far and so my expectations have risen. I am also looking at good ideas, interesting concepts, coordination, confidence and flexibility. Something magical....

A lot of reality dance shows boil down to Bollywood choreography. Will DPL be any different?

DPL will showcase every kind of dance. Whether it is hip-hop, salsa, rumba or every other genre possible. Bollywood dance will of course be there because it is the most popular dance in our country, but we are not limiting ourselves to only that.

Who, according to you, is the best dancer in India today?

Oh, Helen, by far (laughs)! The moves that she came up with 30 years ago cannot be matched up to even today. She is an icon and an inspiration for all of us. And of course, among the men there is Govinda. For him, it is not only about physical moves. He puts his heart and soul into his dance. When he dances, his face and his eyes speak a thousand words.

Priyanka Roy