Footballer loves being crowned dancing king

Baichung Bhutia has created history by winning the reality dance show Jhalak Dikhla Ja, which not only came as a surprise to many of his fans, but left him shocked too. He says, "I never thought I would win. Coming from a non-glamour background and competing with talented dancers like Hard Kaur and Gauhar Khan wasn't easy. I never thought I would last so long."

So, how was the journey from being a footballer to becoming a dancer? "The journey was great. I am happy to be loved and recognised through Jhalak. It was a fun-filled learning experience," he says. But the victory wasn't an easy ride as Baichung had to face criticism for ignoring practices by his club Mohun Bagan.

Baichung clarifies, "These claims are baseless. I never missed my practice sessions or matches. While the football season was on, I played all the matches and won. Besides, I am not with the club anymore so it doesn't matter."

Although he is happy about his victory, Baichung has no plans to be a part of reality shows any more. He says, "I joined Jhalak for a different experience. But football will remain my first priority. I will not dance anymore. But if Jhalak calls me next year just because I was this year's winner, I might shake a leg for them."

On his plans of joining the film industry, Bhaichung says, "Why not? If there is any director and producer who offers me Rs 50 million for a film and a trainer to train me, I won't say no."

Since Bhaichung gives all the credit of his victory to his choreographer Sonia Jaffer, they are planning to celebrate in his homeland Sikkim. He reveals, "Sonia and I are planning to go to Sikkim this month and celebrate our win there."

He also plans to perform there and claims that will be his last dance performance. Interestingly, a share of his prize money also goes to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for the victims of recent floods in Kolkata.