My journey with dance began where many Bollywood stories do: in front of a television. As a kid, I was constantly moving to whatever hit was playing on screen, trying to capture that specific energy you only find in Indian cinema. That early fascination eventually turned into a formal education in Bharatnatyam. The training was rigorous, giving me a foundation of discipline and an understanding of structure that I still carry with me today. However, as I hit my high school years, I felt drawn toward the freedom of modern styles, enjoying the way I could take the precision of my classical roots and blend it with more fluid movements.

The Corporate Detour

By the mid-to-late 2000s, I was deeply involved in the dance scene in Hyderabad at Ram’s Step-up. I started teaching at just 18; while my initial motivation was earning my own money, something shifted as the classes went on. Seeing a room full of people find joy in movement became my primary motivator. Eventually, adulthood took center stage — I pursued my MBA and entered the corporate world, where life was more about meetings and strategy than choreography. Teaching took a backseat, though I never stopped dancing as my way of decompressing. This period taught me a lot about professional discipline, even while far removed from the studio.

Return to Rhythm

Moving to the United States gave me the headspace to return to my roots. When COVID-19 hit, I offered free online lessons as a way to connect with people during an isolating time — a small community activity that reminded me how much I loved the educator role. After moving to the PNW, I began teaching for Rangeela Dance Co and TruFusion, which were instrumental in getting me back into in-person instruction. Beyond the studio, I stay busy performing and participating in cultural events throughout the region, sharing the vibrancy of Bollywood with a wider audience.

Off the Dance Floor

When I’m not at the studio, I stay active in other ways — hiking the PNW trails, playing badminton, and listening to music across just about every genre. On days when I need to truly unplug, you’ll find me binge-watching a new TV series. I’ve learned that dance isn’t just about the steps you take in the studio; it’s about the energy you bring to everything else. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a first-timer, I’d love to have you join me on the floor.