Dancing is something that frees the mind and it’s amazing to see high-quality competitions taking place around the world, giving dancers a platform. Red Bull is all set to host the world final of Red Bull Dance Your Style on December 10 in Johannesburg, South Africa. The competition is a global all-styles street dance event series with a unique battle format. What excites us the most? Shivam Pareek (Mr. Popkorn) and Deepak Shahi (NEPO), both street dancers, have been chosen to compete on this platform and represent the country.
While the two prepare for the battle, NEPO, who is from from Haldwani, Uttarakhand, and won Red Bull Dance Your Style 2021 India (the first time the competition was conducted in the country), had a chat with The Telegraph.
Are you nervous about the event in South Africa?
Yes, I am quite nervous. I am excited at the same time since I am representing my country. This is actually the first time I am representing India on an international platform, so that’s why I am really excited... and a little nervous.
You already wear the crown of being the first one to win this competition in India. How does that make you feel?
It, of course, feels great. This is the first time I am going to South Africa.
Tell us about the preparation that went into winning in 2021?
(Laughs) I have been dancing for a very long time and I practice regularly and try to pull off some hard stuff. I have conditioned my body to a style of dance. And while I dance, I also do a lot of yoga. Yoga has a lot to do with the way I’ve taught my body to move.
Coming from Haldwani, how much exposure do the people get over there to your style of dance? How did you get into it?
In Uttarakhand there is not much exposure to such activities and events... there aren’t many opportunities. Whatever information we get is through social media and that is how I learnt about Red Bull Dance Your Style. Some people I know would go to the park and practice their dance moves. I started dancing when I was nine years old and my dad told me that there is a competition and whether I would like to dance. There were no dance lessons, so we would see what is on TV and practice.
Mr Popkorn is also going to be travelling with you. What do you think of his moves?
He is so strong with his dancing. His style is different from my style. I dance freestyle and he does popping and locking. When it comes to his style he is required to make a move at every beat. He has to hit the beats. Mine is more freestyle.
Other than competing on such a big platform what else are you looking forward to in South Africa?
I don’t know how much I will be able to venture out but I am looking forward to making new friends. I will go, represent India and I will show the world that we are the best.
