At the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, the name “India” made a notable impact in the Breaking (break dancing) arena, despite the country not sending any athletes to compete in the sport. The spotlight on the name came not from a competitor representing India, but rather from a 16-year-old dancer from The Hague, Netherlands, known as India Sardjoe.
In an unexpected twist, India Sardjoe, who performs under the moniker “B-Girl India,” captured attention by winning the first-ever breaking battle at the Olympics. The official Khel India account celebrated the milestone, stating, “India wins the first match in Break dancing History. Yes, you read it right! India Sardjoe, known as ‘B-Girl India’ from the Netherlands, beat refugee team member B-Girl Talash in the first-ever breaking battle at the Olympics.”
Watch Here:
India Sardjoe chose to compete under her real name, a rare decision among dancers who often adopt pseudonyms. In an interview with Olympics.com, she explained, “Many people have asked why I don’t use a B-Girl name, but since I was young, it’s always been this way. Nobody gave me a crazy name or started calling me something else. I wouldn’t change it for anything, and forever it will be just India.”
Her choice to stay true to her name highlights her individuality and authenticity both in and out of the competition, setting a distinct example in the world of competitive breaking.