South African dancer Yarisha Rajcoomar, trained by Bollywood choreographer Saroj Khan, got her first break as part of an international show with her team of dancers in a few items that matched the fast-paced songs by Sunidhi.

Ravi Raj, a compere who has been to South Africa with several singers from India in recent years, has clearly learnt to understand the local audience tastes.

Speaking largely in English to ensure that the locals understood what was said, Raj was a refreshing change from the usual comedy acts from India with their cliched items of mimicry.

Even when he did include some mimicry, it was done innovatively as he shared how some famous Bollywood stars young and old might have made their pleas to Durga Mata during Navratri, to the delight of the audience.

Half of the six-man band from India played the most serious percussion instruments, in keeping with the loud songs that have made Sunidhi a household name here, and her costumes and stage movements blended in well with her singing.

As one audience member in the crowd leaving the arena remarked: 'She could be a Bollywood movie star herself!'