Did Anastasiia Gubanova Skate to Dhurandhar at the Olympics?

Bollywood on Ice: The Viral Legend of Anastasiia Gubanova

In a moment that has electrified the internet, Russian-born Georgian figure skater Anastasiia Gubanova became a global sensation during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. Known for her technical precision and artistic flair, the 23-year-old chose to pay a vibrant tribute to Indian culture that resonated far beyond the ice rink.

The Performance That Went Viral

Yes, Anastasiia Gubanova did indeed perform to a mashup that included the Dhurandhar title track (popularly known as "Jogi" or "Na De Dil Pardesi Nu").

Representing Georgia, Gubanova took to the ice in a stunning red-and-gold, form-fitting costume, complete with a traditional red bindi on her forehead. The routine was a masterclass in cultural fusion, seamlessly blending elite athleticism with the high-energy beats of Indian cinema.

The Musical Selection

The routine was not just a single track but a carefully curated Bollywood medley:

• "San Sanana": She opened her short program with this iconic track from the 2001 film Asoka, featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor.

• "Dhurandhar" Title Track: As the energy in the arena built, the music transitioned into the viral hit from the 2025 blockbuster Dhurandhar, starring Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna.

Fans and critics alike were stunned by how effortlessly she matched her intricate footwork and high-speed spins to the rhythmic Indian beats. At one point, she even incorporated a brief Punjabi folk step, drawing a roar of approval from the live audience.

Fact-Checking the "Olympics" Buzz

While the performance is currently the talk of the 2026 Winter Olympics, it is worth noting that this wasn't the first time Gubanova showcased this specific routine. She had previously debuted the Bollywood mashup during the 2025 Skate to Milano qualifier in Beijing. However, its appearance on the grandest stage of them all—the Winter Olympics—is what caused the "Dhurandhar fever" to reach a fever pitch worldwide.

Why It Matters

The performance has been hailed as a significant moment of cultural diplomacy. Despite India not having a figure skater in the 2026 games, Gubanova’s choice made Indian fans feel seen on the Olympic stage. Netizens have flooded social media with praise, calling her an "unofficial ambassador" for Indian music.

For Gubanova, the choice was personal. In previous interviews, she has expressed a deep comfort with the "Indian style" of performance, noting that the vibrant energy of Bollywood music helps her connect with the audience in a way traditional classical scores sometimes cannot.

The Legacy of the "Dhurandhar" Move

As Dhurandhar continues to dominate the global box office and streaming charts, Gubanova’s performance has solidified the film's title track as a global anthem. It serves as a reminder that in the world of sports and art, there are no borders—only the shared rhythm of a great performance.

Source - https://www.indulgexpress.com/amp/story/entertainment/sports-entertainment/2026/Feb/11/did-the-russian-georgian-skater-anastasiia-gubanova-perform-to-the-dhurandhar-title-track-in-winter-olympics

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