Why UAE loves Bollywood movies

Today, many Emirati Henna parties - the celebration night before weddings - are Indian-themed.

Marked by its vibrancy and melodramatic plots, Bollywood movies have attracted generations of Emiratis. The influence of Indian cinema has had, and continues to have, on Emirati culture has crossed the mere emotions stirred by themes of star-crossed lovers and angry parents, love triangles, family ties, sacrifice, corrupt politicians, long-lost relatives and siblings separated by fate and convenient coincidences.
Today, many Emirati Henna parties - the celebration night before weddings - are Indian-themed.
Shaikha Al Shamsi, 22, said celebrations are marked by women wearing the Indian dress, serving the rasmalai dessert and wearing loads of gold and jewellery. Sometimes female guests even wear sari, the traditional Indian dress.
"We grew up watching Bollywood films and it became part of our culture," said Al Shamsi. "We love their expressive dances, music, theatrical performances and family-friendly stories that we could relate to throughout the years." 
For Emirati Mariam Al Khoory, Bollywood is an important part of her childhood. "The large Indian population residing in UAE has somehow imported this kind of culture. Living with Indians for such a long time has automatically transferred some of their cultural elements to us."
The 21-year-old, who wishes to visit India, added that Indian films reflected the country's rich history and traditions that are highly similar to that of Emiratis, which helped generations to relate.
 "Appreciating family, respecting the elderly and loving sincerely are all values promoted within our Emirati culture as well," said Al Khoory, "Their cinema spark the curiosity to learn more about the deep background of these traditions."
She said Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan remains her favorite.
Inspired to dance
The catchy beats and entertainment that comes in the form of song and dance have inspired many to learn Bollywood dance as a hobby or to perform during their henna, or even birthday parties.
Mira Al Qasimi said performing Bollywood dance is a "joyful experience" due to its story-telling nature. "There's poetry within the movement of Bollywood dance. A small flick of the wrist could mean a flower falling on the ground," said Al Qasimi, who learned different types of dance forms including the Kathak and Punjabi Bangra.
"I love the high energetic moves and the fact that the dances are family-friendly, as in graceful and innocent," she said, calling the experience 'funducational'. "And colourful is sometimes an understatement when it comes to describing their costumes used especially in dance numbers."
She pointed to the big impact Indian cinema has had on Emiratis. Last week, she attended her cousin's henna party, which she described as "hardcore Indian party" that featured flowers, costumes, Indian dances and music.
"Bollywood has affected us more than anything. It could be due to the large Indian population or the proximity between both countries," said Al Qasimi. "I think it's such a big hit because our Arabic culture could relate to the melodrama."
Emirati Fatima Mohammed said she referred to a dancing instructor to learn some moves that she could perform during her Holi-themed 24th birthday party.
"I learned three dances in two weeks, and was able to perform with my friends," said Mohammed. "We love Bollywood, it is something that runs in our family."
Besides the dancing, her family and friends celebrated by throwing coloured powders on each other, then sharing Holi delicacies, food and drinks. Mohammed noted the family's close ties with their Indian coworkers for over 30 years. "We have deep connection with the Indian culture, and this could be seen in our food and party styles."
What inspires Emiratis
Dance instructor Nisha Shavnani, who owns her own dance centre, noted that Bollywood's expressions, vibrancy and benefits that exceed the choreography are what attract students to learn the dance.
She noted that most of her students are Emiratis. "I have loads of different cultures from various ages coming in, mostly Emiratis, and we're all one family. Emiratis love Bollywood because it reflects the element of expression that is similar to their culture." She added that Emiratis learn to perform in their own parties, sometimes hosting Indian dancers. "Besides the self-expression, art also reflects the similarities between cultures," said Shavnani.
Top Bollywood dance schools in Dubai
Nisha Dance Centre
ABC Art Centre
Off The Hook Dance Class
Nora Bouchaibi/Nora Dance Group
Tee & Bee Dance Institute
Solid Rock Music & Dance Zone
sherouk@khaleejtimes.com