Before Netflix’s Virgin River, The Vampire Diaries, or even Grey’s Anatomy catapulted them to global fame, Martin Henderson and Daniel Gillies shared an unforgettable cinematic experience

that many fans today might find surprising: learning the intricate steps of a traditional Garba dance from none other than Bollywood superstar Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

This magical moment took place during Gurinder Chadha’s 2004 cross-cultural musical Bride and Prejudice, a vibrant reimagining of Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice.

The film fused Bollywood’s colorful energy with Hollywood storytelling, producing a delightful spectacle that continues to resonate with audiences—especially the iconic Garba sequence, which remains a fan-favorite throwback.

From Rising Actors to International Icons

When Bride and Prejudice hit theaters, neither Henderson nor Gillies were the household names they would later become. Daniel Gillies, who would go on to captivate audiences as the brooding Elijah Mikaelson in The Vampire Diaries and The Originals, was still carving his path in the acting world. Martin Henderson, now beloved for his portrayal of Jack Sheridan in Virgin River and Dr. Nathan Riggs in Grey’s Anatomy, was likewise a rising talent navigating a complex new genre: Bollywood-style musicals.

Their roles in the film required them to embrace a cultural tradition far removed from their own—learning the precise, rhythmic movements of Garba, a folk dance from India’s western state of Gujarat, all while keeping pace with Aishwarya Rai, one of the world’s most celebrated actresses and former Miss World.

The Garba Sequence: Flirtation Meets Dance

One of the most memorable moments in Bride and Prejudice came during the lively “Dola Dola” dance number. Here, Henderson’s character, William Darcy, and Gillies’ George Wickham engage in a playful, competitive battle for the attention of Rai’s Lalita Bakshi. On the surface, it’s a simple romantic rivalry—but add the infectious beats of traditional Garba, and the result is pure cinematic magic.

Henderson and Gillies threw themselves into the choreography with equal parts determination and awkward charm. Some moves were tentative, others surprisingly in sync—but the energy of the scene was undeniable. Meanwhile, Aishwarya Rai glided across the floor with effortless grace, her performance both a guide and a challenge for the two Western actors. The clash wasn’t just between suitors; it was a cultural dialogue, a moment where East met West in a whirl of color, music, and movement.

A Cinematic Bridge Between Worlds

While Bride and Prejudice may not have been a global blockbuster, it represented a significant step in bridging Bollywood and Hollywood on a mainstream stage. For Aishwarya Rai, it was another leap toward international recognition, allowing global audiences to witness her talent and charisma beyond Indian cinema.

For Henderson and Gillies, the experience was a formative one—an early credit that would gain renewed attention as their careers exploded in later years. Fans now look back at that Garba sequence with nostalgia, appreciating the energy, the learning curve, and the cultural exchange it embodied.

Behind the Scenes: Learning from a Star

According to interviews and behind-the-scenes accounts, learning Garba wasn’t easy. Henderson and Gillies had to master fast-paced footwork, precise hand gestures, and seamless coordination, all while maintaining the film’s lighthearted, flirtatious tone. Aishwarya’s patience and skill were instrumental—guiding the actors, correcting missteps, and helping them deliver a performance that looked spontaneous and joyous on camera.

It was a unique mentorship moment, one that showed how collaboration across cultures can create something genuinely magical on screen. Henderson and Gillies weren’t just learning choreography; they were absorbing the essence of a centuries-old tradition, translating it into a form accessible for global audiences.

Why Fans Still Cherish This Moment

Looking back, it’s almost surreal to see Henderson and Gillies—now icons in their respective television universes—twirling in vibrant costumes on a Bollywood set. Their later roles, whether in the sleepy town of Virgin River or the dark, supernatural worlds of The Vampire Diaries, contrast sharply with the exuberance and flamboyance of Garba. Yet it’s this very contrast that makes the sequence so endearing.

For fans, it’s a reminder that even celebrated actors had to navigate unfamiliar territory, stepping outside their comfort zones to embrace something completely new. And doing it under the watchful, graceful eye of Aishwarya Rai? That’s a story worth revisiting.

A Throwback That Resonates

Bride and Prejudice may be two decades old, but its cultural and cinematic significance endures. The Garba sequence encapsulates a rare moment of East-meets-West collaboration, where storytelling, dance, and romance intertwined seamlessly. It also highlights the playful yet competitive dynamic between Henderson and Gillies’ characters—a prelude, perhaps, to the intense yet charming on-screen personas they would develop in later years.

Reflections from the Stars

Both Henderson and Gillies have spoken fondly about their experience on the set. Henderson recalled the initial struggle to perfect the choreography but admitted that the process was fun and humbling. Gillies echoed this sentiment, noting that Aishwarya’s professionalism and warmth made the challenge exciting rather than intimidating.

Fans often marvel at the trio’s chemistry—an interplay of mentorship, rivalry, and shared creativity that transcends the screen. The joy, laughter, and vibrant energy are palpable even now, making the sequence a timeless highlight of early-2000s cinema.

Legacy and Nostalgia

For film historians and enthusiasts, the sequence is more than a nostalgic nod—it’s an example of how cultural exchange in cinema can be both entertaining and educational. The blending of Western actors with Bollywood traditions in a Jane Austen adaptation showcases the universality of storytelling: love, humor, competition, and joy are understood across borders.

It also underscores the unpredictability of Hollywood careers. Who would have thought that two relatively unknown actors, learning Garba for a musical, would go on to define beloved television series and capture millions of hearts worldwide?

Conclusion: A Moment to Remember

Bride and Prejudice remains a cherished piece of cinema history, and the Garba sequence continues to enchant audiences. Watching Martin Henderson and Daniel Gillies navigate the dance floor under Aishwarya Rai’s guidance is a testament to their dedication, versatility, and charm.

Before Jack Sheridan’s brooding romance or Elijah Mikaelson’s supernatural allure, there was Garba—a joyful, colorful, and unforgettable moment that reminds fans of the playful beginnings of two major stars. For anyone revisiting the film today, it’s more than a dance number—it’s a celebration of cultural fusion, early talent, and the magic that happens when worlds collide on screen.