LET your hair down and pick out that shimmery suit as it is time for some Balle, Balle.

Critically acclaimed musical The Merchants of Bollywood has finally reached our shores and ready to take Malaysian fans on a colourful ride of history, dance and music at Istana Budaya from now until July 26.

Based on the true story of top Bollywood choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant and her grandfather Hiralal, The Merchants of Bollywood tells the tale of trials and tribulations faced by Ayesha Merchant, who is  determined to make a name for herself in Bollywood despite her grandfather Shantilal's disapproval of the modern art form.

As the last in line of gurus of the ancient Kathak dance, Shantilal is adamant not to let the family tradition die out.

A brainchild of writer / director Toby Gough and producer Mark Brady, the musical became a reality after Gough went to India in search of a riveting story. His encounter with Merchant gave him what he was seeking - a perfect story to be put on stage.

"The musical is all about authenticity, created at the heart of Bollywood by the most credible minds working in the Hindi film industry today including music by Salim and Sulaiman Merchant," said Brady.

One of the most admirable characters in the musical is Shantilal, who leaves his passion behind when the industry becomes influenced by western trends and dirty money. He starts his own dance school in the deserts of Rajasthan, teaching traditional folk dance.

When his granddaughter Ayesha decides to leave Rajasthan against his wishes to pursue her dreams in dazzling Mumbai, their relationship is estranged.

Ayesha vows to resolve the conflict and returns to Rajasthan to make peace with her grandfather and in true Bollywood fashion, finds herself back in the arms of her childhood sweetheart Uday.

After marrying Uday, Ayesha stays back to teach at her family's dance school, combining classical dance with the latest, energetic moves from Bollywood.

"We are thrilled to perform for an audience who know so much about Bollywood. It is going to be a roller coaster ride," said Assistant choreographer Shruti Merchant, who is the sister of Vaibhavi, revealed that the musical is personal to her as it is about her family.

"The scenes with Shantilal, who portrays my grandfather can be a little difficult," she said. "We really want the audience to feel like dancing along with the cast of the show. We want to give them a little happiness when they leave Istana Budaya."

The musical extravaganza includes 53 members of the cast, 1,200 costume changes, 2,500 pieces of Indian jewellery in a 90-minute masala of dazzling dances, sparkling costumes, historical reflection and an energetic ensemble of all things Bollywood.

Having toured across many cities in the world, the musical has gone through many transformations. It now includes the latest Bollywood hit songs from movies like Rang De Basenti and Dhoom, a mix of grand costumes and new choreography techniques.

Hailed as a spectacular success by audiences and critics in the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Germany and Australia, the all-singing, all-dancing Bollywood musical features music composed by Oscar-wining composer A. R. Rahman.

The Merchants of Bollywood is on from now until July

26 at Istana Budaya. Tickets are priced from RM70 to RM500 and are available at www.ticketpro.com.my or by calling 03-7880 7999.