Strap: From late-night practice sessions in Rajkot to international dance competitions, Mangalya Parmar is building his name in London’s hip-hop and urban dance scene.
GUJARAT: Hip-hop dancer and choreographer Mangalya Parmar, 28, has come a long way from his humble beginnings in Rajkot, Gujarat, to international dance battles and performances at London’s O2 Arena Wembley.
His journey has been driven by discipline, determination and countless hours of practice, often while the rest of his household slept. “After attending dance classes following school, I would return home around 9:30 pm, have dinner and begin practising again around 11:30 pm. I often continued until 7 am while my mother slept and prepared for work the next morning. The hours when nobody was watching were the hours that changed me,” he said.
Since moving to London in 2024, Parmar has taken on choreography roles with two dance companies while continuing to train, perform and teach. His professional experience also extends to film and television, with work on productions associated with Masti 4, Sardaar Ji 3 and Housefull 4. He has also appeared on the Gujarati dance reality show Nach Mari Sathe.
On the competitive circuit, Parmar has participated in the World of Dance (WOD) competition three times. He secured a Top 5 finish at the World of Dance India Qualifier, competed at the WOD London Qualifier with his dance team, and most recently finished just outside of Top 5 in the solo division at the London Qualifier. He has also reached the Top 16 at the Bad Vibes dance battle in Bangkok and was selected for RF Jam Vietnam.
Developing a distinctive style
Trained in Hip-Hop, Popping, Waacking, House, Krump, Locking, Contemporary, Freestyle and Bollywood, Parmar brings versatility to his performances.
His dancing combines rhythmic precision, fluid movement and expressive musical interpretation. Sharp Popping isolations contrast with energetic Hip-Hop sequences, while controlled footwork and well-timed pauses give his routines character. His use of improvisation and dynamic contrasts reflects an approach that prioritises musicality alongside technical ability.
Finding opportunity in London
For Parmar, London offers more than a new home; it provides access to a diverse creative community and opportunities to develop professionally.
“London is one of the world’s most exciting destinations for dancers and choreographers. This city offers an ecosystem that supports our growth, from creative-development programmes and rehearsal spaces to mentoring, auditions and performance platforms,” he said.
He highlights The Place, which publicises opportunities for dance artists, and Impact Dance, which supports artists through development initiatives and access to creative resources.
From practising through the night in Rajkot to competing on international stages, Parmar’s journey reflects the commitment required to build a career in dance. As he continues to
establish himself in London, he remains driven by the same principle that shaped his beginnings: progress is made through the hours nobody sees.
