Dance is not simply a detox or weight loss tool, or a hobby for me. It is a profound medium of education and personal growth. For me, the power of dance lies in its ability to teach persistence, humility, courage and gratitude. This potent mix has been my life’s magic potion - the elixir that has nourished not only my journey as a dancer, but my very existence as a human.
I feel my initiation into dance began in my mother's womb itself - a bittersweet echo of the personal dream that she could not fulfil. Over the past 27 years, I have realized that my pursuit of dance has been one of the most valuable learning experiences of my life.
It is not simply a physical activity; it is a discipline that demands patience, hard work, and unwavering dedication. It is a commitment towards understanding, learning, practicing and enjoying the art form. This deep connection to dance has helped me discover my true self, which I experienced in my journey of seeking therapy.
Even after long, exhausting days, when I am practice in my dance class, the solace and fulfilment I experience are complete. Performing arts such as dance are gifts that keep on giving. For me, dance means much more than appreciation or criticism, especially after a stage performance. While the technicalities of dance can be perfected, the “shringar” and costume can be thorough, and the emotions and grace impressive, for me, what truly matters is the deeper understanding of life's nuances that dance imparts. My personal philosophy of dance is about becoming a better human being. I believe that dance, when pursued with sincerity and passion, has the power to provide unwavering support, guidance, empathy and love.
The dance I specialize in is Odissi, a classical Indian dance form from eastern India. I have been training under the guidance of two esteemed gurus, Guru Panchanan Bhuyan and Guru Priyambada Samantray at Aradhana Dance Foundation, New Delhi . They have instilled in me the strength to face my flaws, work on them, and use dance to become the best version of myself. It would be a mistake to not express my gratitude to all my earlier Gurus, who have shared their passion for dancing with me. Although my “Gurudakshina” comes in the form of admiration by the audience, I dance for the divine, with all my heart.
Recently I have also starting teaching dance to students in New Delhi, in-person and online. Sharing the deep knowledge that I accumulated with other students, only increases its power.
I have been asked very often about why I haven’t pursued dance as my primary profession. I am very fortunate to be involved in two fields that I am passionate about: working with children and adults with disabilities as a Coordinator Senior School and Special Needs Teacher at Vasant Valley School, New Delhi, and expressing myself through the timeless beauty of Odissi.
I find it strange when people refer to dance classes casually as a stressbuster. My response to their concept of dance usually comes as a surprise to them. Odissi is my lifelong expression of love, resilience, courage and gratitude. I pray to the Divine to continue to bless me with the passion and skill to express my best self through Odissi, and share this journey with as many people as possible, in all of my lifetimes.
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