In conversation with Desi Australia
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
I’m a Delhi boy born in a family of Engineers, doctors and professors. At the age of 4, obsessed with Hrithik Roshan, I started dancing to the tunes of ‘Ik Pal Ka Jeena’. My mother, looking at my keen interest in dance, enrolled me in The Danceworx Performing Arts Academy.
Over the course of the next 13 years I honed my skills in Jazz funk and Broadway Jazz to an advanced level. I also developed the foundations of Ballet both at The Danceworx and the Indian Fernando Ballet Company to an intermediate level.
My work in the Bollywood film industry includes projects under the Yash Raj Films and Tiger Baby Production banners including large-scale choreography and extensive dancer ensembles.
I assisted Ms. Vaibhavi Merchant in choreographing the Ambani Wedding, one of the biggest weddings in India, managing a team of over 100 artists, including 30 of my own students. The production was based on the famous love story in Hindu mythology, ‘Radha Krishna’ where I also featured in the lead role of ‘Krishna’ and performed with Mouni Roy, an Indian television and film actress.
Your Fondest memory of childhood.
My fondest childhood memory has to be the time I danced for the first time in front of a camera. I was only seven years old, and it was an opportunity I had never imagined would come my way.
What/ who inspired you to get into dancing and eventually take it as your career especially specializing in Mayurbhanj Chhau?
My journey into dance and eventually specializing in Mayurbhanj Chhau was profoundly influenced by my mentor and Guru, Mr. Santosh Nair. His belief in my potential was like the discerning eye of a jeweler recognizing the worth of a diamond.
I first met Mr. Nair during my college days while competing at Delhi University. Unlike many other teams who hired professional choreographers, he encouraged us to choreograph our piece independently. This act of faith and his mentorship instilled a deep confidence in us and left a lasting impact on my artistic journey.
After graduation, I chose to join his company, Sadhya – A Unit of Performing Arts. It was there that I was introduced to the captivating dance form of Mayurbhanj Chhau. Mr. Nair’s mastery of Chhau and his unique approach to teaching were instrumental in shaping my understanding of dance. His guidance allowed me to explore choreography and performance, and he provided me with the confidence and opportunities to refine my skills. His mentorship didn’t just teach me about dance; it ignited my passion for it and set me on the path to becoming a choreographer.
Anyone else in your family have an interest in dancing?
My family’s interest in dance is primarily centered around my work and achievements. They are my most enthusiastic supporters and, at times, my most honest critics. While they appreciate and celebrate my accomplishments, their engagement with dance is more about following my journey rather than pursuing it themselves.
Can you please share some experiences of your participation in ‘So you think you can dance?
Initially, I wasn’t particularly interested in competing in reality shows. My passion lay in the world of stage performances with my artistic dance company, where we focused on elaborate productions for international dance festivals.
However, So You Think You Can Dance was an exception for me. Growing up, I had watched the show with great admiration, and when it was announced that it was coming to India for the first time, I saw it as a golden opportunity. I felt it was the perfect platform to showcase the Indian warrior dance, Mayurbhanj Chhau, on a grand stage.
My nostalgia and excitement led me to audition, and to my surprise, I was selected. But the journey was far from easy. Over 200 dancers were chosen in the initial rounds from across the country, and the competition was incredibly intense. Each week presented new challenges: we faced solo auditions, group choreography rounds, and various other demanding tasks. Within just six weeks, we had to navigate through two solo auditions, one group choreography round, and two additional choreography rounds.
Being selected among the top 20 was a significant achievement, but the journey didn’t end there. I advanced to the top 12, which turned out to be one of the most challenging experiences of my career. We rehearsed 10-12 hours a day with different choreographers, learning not only our own routines but also complex group choreographies.
Despite the grueling demands, this experience was transformative. It opened doors for me in the Bollywood industry and offered me a fresh perspective on pursuing my passion.
How do you handle stressful situations?
I dance them away.
As a professional dancer and choreographer, dealing with stress is an integral part of the journey. The world of dance is filled with auditions, performances, and constant evaluation, and not every audition or performance goes as planned. It’s a field where highs and lows are part of the routine, and handling stress effectively is crucial to maintaining both personal well-being and professional momentum.
When faced with stressful situations, I turn to dance as my refuge. Dancing allows me to channel my emotions, release built-up tension, and regain focus. Whether it’s a challenging rehearsal, a difficult audition, or a tough day in the studio, moving to the rhythm and expressing through dance helps me regain balance and perspective.
Tell us about your visit to Australia.
This is my first visit to Australia, and it has been an absolutely fantastic experience so far. The directors of the Bollywood Dance Company, Vihang, Darshan, and Sohini, have been incredibly welcoming and gracious hosts. Their hospitality has made my stay truly enjoyable.
One of the highlights has been the opportunity to explore the local cuisine. Sydney has offered some amazing culinary experiences, and I’ve had the chance to sample a variety of delicious dishes. The food here has been a delightful part of my journey, reflecting the vibrant culture and diverse influences present in Australia.
It’s also been inspiring to see the dance community that Vihang, Darshan, and Sohini have cultivated over the years. The students here are exceptionally talented and passionate about dance. Teaching them has been a joy, and their enthusiasm and dedication to their craft have made each session a rewarding experience for me.
And yes, the Aussies are absolutely right about their coffee. I’ve been enjoying some of the best coffee I’ve ever had.
Your future plans
Following my tour in Australia, I’m embarking on an exciting new chapter in my career. I’m relocating to Los Angeles to pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Choreography at California Institute of the Arts (CalArts). This transition marks a significant step as I dive deeper into the academic side of dance.
I’m thrilled about this opportunity to further refine my craft and expand my knowledge in choreography. CalArts is renowned for its innovative approach to the arts, and I’m eager to immerse myself in its vibrant creative environment.
One of my key goals during this period is to introduce and integrate Mayurbhanj Chhau into the American dance landscape. I’m passionate about sharing this traditional Indian dance form with new audiences and exploring how it can contribute to the diverse tapestry of dance in the United States.
Any message for the youth.
Let Passion be the fuel that instigates your Drive.
Passion is a powerful force. It’s what ignites your interest, motivates you through challenges, and propels you toward your goals. When you are passionate about something, it’s not just a fleeting interest—it becomes a core part of who you are and what you strive for.
So, find what you love and let it guide you. Nurture that passion, let it inspire you, and let it be the driving force behind your ambitions. The journey might be challenging, but with passion as your fuel, you’ll find that the road is not only rewarding but also exhilarating. Keep pushing forward with enthusiasm and dedication, and let your passion lead the way.
