BBC Studios’ "Dancing with the Stars" returns to India on Sony Entertainment Television

BBC Studios confirmed Sony Entertainment Television has acquired the rights to the highly anticipated and immensely popular dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, a BBC Studios unscripted format of Dancing with the Stars. Returning to Sony Entertainment Television after 12 years, the show premiered on 11th November and will continue to air every Saturday and Sunday at 9.30PM IST.

"I am delighted that Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa is dancing its way back to its original home of Sony Entertainment Television," Sameer Gogate, General Manager, BBC Studios Production, India, said. "It is a hugely popular show, both in India and internationally, and it continues to surprise and delight as the incredible hidden dance talents of our celebrities are revealed on the dance floor. We have begun shooting and can't wait to see the contestants sashaying onto the dance floor for this new edition on Sony Entertainment Television!"

One of the most popular BBC Studios formats with 61 licenses of the show globally, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa is the Indian adaptation of "Dancing with the Stars," or "Strictly Come Dancing" as it is known in the UK. It is recognized for its dazzling dance-offs, and its star-studded judging panel has remained a household sensation since its inception. With its unique blend of entertainment, emotion, and unparalleled choreography, the show consistently raises the bar for television.

The upcoming season of the celebrity dance reality show will witness Farah Khan Kunder, Arshad Warsi, and Malaika Arora coming together to form a dynamic judging panel. Farah Khan Kunder, a highly skilled choreographer, and acclaimed filmmaker, is known for her imaginative dance routines and possesses a discerning eye for spotting talent, making her an ideal choice for the judging panel. Versatile actor, dancer and entertainer, Arshad Warsi will contribute his wit and charm to the mix while Malaika Arora is renowned for her mesmerizing moves and captivating presence, having made her mark not only as a Bollywood icon but also as a popular judge in various reality shows. Together, this trio, with their wealth of experience and expertise, promise to offer valuable feedback and unforgettable entertainment in the show.

“The return of 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa' on Sony Entertainment Television marks an exciting addition to our nonfiction lineup," Neeraj Vyas, Business Head - Sony Entertainment Television, Sony SAB, PAL and Sony MAX Movie Cluster, said. "It signifies our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class content and this season will see celebrities from different walks of life perform diverse routines, judged by Farah Khan Kunder, Arshad Warsi and Malaika Arora. Acquiring the rights to this beloved format is more than just a homecoming for the show; it's a celebration of entertainment, glamour, and dance, posing a visual extravaganza for our audiences."

A transformation that fans look forward to, the show will see much loved actors and stars shed their inhibitions and don their dancing shoes in a bid to impress the nation. This season promises a line-up of sensational contestants from diverse walks of life including Indian wrestler Sangeeta Phogat, the vivacious Tanishaa Mukerji, TV actor and model Aamir Ali, television icon Urvashi Dholakia, TV heartthrobs Shoaib Ibrahim and Vivek Dahiya, Rocky aur Rani ki Prem Kahaani actor Anjali Anand, Indian television’s much loved Pushpa aka Karuna Pandey, reality show star Shiv Thakre, comedian Rajiv Thakur, Celebrity Teen Actor Adrija Sinha and Indian playback singer Sreerama Chandra. This forthcoming season of ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa’ is hosted by Gauahar Khan and Rithvik Dhanjani and promises an even more immersive and electrifying experience for viewers across India.