New Delhi, Feb. 18 -- China has grabbed global attention after unveiling a new generation of humanoid robots performing kung fu, parkour and choreographed dance routines during its annual Spring Festival Gala-one of the most watched television events in the world.

Videos from the broadcast, which aired nationwide on Lunar New Year's Eve, quickly spread across social media platforms, with many viewers expressing amazement at the machines' balance, coordination and speed. The gala, a cultural mainstay watched by hundreds of millions, is also seen as a key platform for showcasing national achievements.

During the performance, around two dozen humanoid robots executed synchronised martial arts sequences, complete with punches, kicks and bac...