Russian-Georgian Figure Skater Captivates Winter Olympics with Bollywood Performance
Milan, Italy – A captivating performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo has turned heads and sparked a viral sensation. Russian-Georgian figure skater Anastasiia Gubanova delivered a stunning routine set to a medley of popular Bollywood songs, captivating audiences and quickly gaining traction online.
The 23-year-old athlete began her performance with the track “San Sananana Sana” from the 2004 film Ashoka, starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor, before seamlessly transitioning to the title track of the recently released film Dhurandhar. Videos of her performance have circulated widely on social media, with viewers praising her skill and unique musical choices.
Gubanova’s performance wasn’t just about the music; she also incorporated a striking visual element, donning a vibrant red and gold costume complemented by a traditional red bindi. This detail resonated particularly with Indian fans, who have flooded social media with positive reactions.
“Just saw Anastasia Gubanova ice skating at the Milan Olympics – with Bindi and Indian music – full Hindu vibes. Cheering for her,” wrote Dr. Lavanya Vemsani on X (formerly Twitter) on February 6, 2026, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm.
This isn’t the first time Gubanova has showcased her affinity for Indian music and culture. In September 2025, she performed the same mashup, complete with the bindi and costume, in Beijing, China.
“I feel most comfortable with an Indian style,” Gubanova told Sports24 in 2025. “My friends helped me choose the music… Now I’m an ‘Indian girl,’ and I love it!”
The popularity of the music itself is also contributing to the viral moment. Dhurandhar’s title track, released on December 5, 2025, has quickly become a fan favorite both in India and internationally. The film Dhurandhar: The Revenge is slated for release on March 19, 2026, and the skater’s performance is seen by many as further fueling the anticipation.
Gubanova is a decorated athlete, having previously earned the title of 2023 European champion, along with two European silver medals, four ISU Challenger Series gold medals, and two ISU Grand Prix bronze medals. However, it’s her embrace of Bollywood that has captured the world’s attention at the Milan-Cortina Games.
The performance has sparked conversations about cultural representation and appreciation, with many viewers noting the skater’s performance as a respectful homage to Indian cinema and music. The viral video underscores the growing global reach of Bollywood and its influence on diverse audiences worldwide.
