Strictly Come Dancing star breaks down in tears after making history

Viewers were left 'bawling'

There was an emotional moment on Strictly Come Dancing last night as a star made history on the dance floor. The dazzling BBC One show returned with a bang on Saturday (October 5) for its Movie Week special, with hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman welcoming back the remaining celebrities to strut their stuff.

Last week saw Tom Dean and his professional partner Nadiya Bychkova become the first to leave the competition after a tense dance-off against Toyah Wilcox and Neil Jones. This week, contestants including JB Gill, Tasha Ghouri, and Shayne Ward returned, eager to impress with their latest performances.

Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke were all present to critique the dances. The episode was themed around iconic movie characters, kicking off with a Despicable Me inspired group performance by the professionals.

However, it was Dr Punam Krisha who stole the spotlight, making Strictly history. Alongside Gorka Marquez, she performed the show's first-ever traditional Bollywood number, reports the Mirror.

Their Couple's Choice routine was set to Bole Chudiyan from the beloved Bollywood film Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham.... The judges couldn't hide their admiration for the performance, with Motsi Mabuse moved to tears despite her resolve not to "cry."

Overwhelmed by the positive comments, Punam was visibly touched during her chat with Claudia.

Claudia enquired, "Tell me what it means? " to which an emotional Punam, with Gorka offering comfort, responded: "I feel like I would have loved to have seen something like this when I was growing up. And I guess you just can't be what you can't see."

Viewers at home were deeply moved by Punam and Gorka's routine. On the social platform X, previously known as Twitter, a user exclaimed: "I am so glad that Punam got to showcase her culture like that, that performance was amazing."

Another viewer confessed: "Bawled at Punam's dance. So happy for her." A third remarked: "That was SUCH a joyful dance! Punam looked beautiful and the pure joy just shone out of her well done."

An additional comment from a fan read: "Punam looks so happy and beautiful I can't believe how much crying I've done." Meanwhile, another said: "Punam was outstanding! Loved the Bollywood number! ".