B-Girl India’s Historic Victory Kicks Off Olympic Breaking Revolution

PARIS, France — B-girl India from the Netherlands triumphed over refugee team member B-girl Talash in a historic breaking battle at the Paris Olympics, marking the debut of break dancing on the Olympic stage.

India Sardjoe, known competitively as “B-girl India,” secured her place in the competition after defeating Manizha Talash, or “B-girl Talash,” in the sole pre-qualifying match before proceeding to the round-robin phase.

The pre-qualifying round was specially arranged in May when Talash, who missed previous registration deadlines due to circumstances in Afghanistan, was added to the Olympic roster. The International Olympic Committee intervened, recognizing Talash’s resilience against the Taliban’s stringent rules governing women in her country.

Sardjoe dazzled the audience with her power moves, while Talash showcased her toprocking skills and intricate footwork. In a poignant moment, Talash revealed a cape bearing the message “Free Afghan Women.”

The Olympic breaking competition now continues with a round-robin format. Groups of four breakers will compete against each other, with only two from each group advancing to the quarterfinals, followed by semifinals, and culminating in the final showdown.

Excitement hit a high note as American rapper Snoop Dogg opened the event with a dramatic entrance to “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” stirring cheers and dancing amongst the spectators. The 17 competing B-girls, particularly those from France and the U.S., were introduced to enthusiastic applause.

The panel of judges, composed of esteemed B-boys and B-girls from various nations, occupied seats between a record-like circular floor and a large boombox replica. This setup paid homage to the breakbeat, the crucial musical element of breaking, celebrated for its repetitive loop that allows dancers to shine on the floor.