When I decided to start my blog I was told to write about
something I am really passionate about. The answer was simple- ‘DANCE’. So here
I am sharing my experiences about this art that defines my existence. A banker
by profession and a dancer by passion my journey began at the tender age of 4
when my parents decided to enroll me into BHARATNATYAM dance class. Just to
give a brief, BHARATNATYAM is dance form that originated in Tamil Nadu. A
combination of Bhava( expression) Rasa(music, rhythm) and Natya(Dance). In my
journey of eleven years I have performed various episodes from our scriptures.
From Tandava to the great stories of the Indian Goddesses (Ashtalaxmi), the
episodes from Mahabharat and Ramanaya, the journey has been beautiful.
In my college years I was introduced to Ballroom Dance form.
I enrolled myself at the very famous Sandeep Soparkar’s Ballroom Studio. It was
a mix of Latin Ballroom (Samba, Cha Cha, Jive, Rumba), Standard Ballroom
(Foxtrot, Waltz, Quick Step & Viennese Waltz), Salsa & Merengue. Also,
I did lay my hands on Tango and Paso Doble; but in the absence of a great
partner it’s difficult to enjoy these forms. As an amateur, in my first 2 years
of training I instantly fell in love with the fast paced versions (Cha Cha,
Jive, Samba, Salsa). It somehow brings out the chic side in you and if you are
lucky to find a great partner, it’s a whole new world. I distinctly remember
Sandeep Sir saying, “As you go to the higher levels you will start enjoying
Standard Ballroom more.” And I’ve come to realise that one’s Master is always
right. Six years into training and now one of my favourite forms is ‘Waltz’. Waltz
has a larger than LIFE feel to it. Prancing with your partner in a wave like
movement (the count 1-2-3: down-up-down) redefines LOVE for me. If I were to
pick a Bollywood song to Waltz on, I would pick ‘Dil Ki Nazar Se’ from the
movie ANARI(1959).
It does become a tad bit difficult to pursue your passion
once you are working. However, I have been fortunate to be associated to Dance
till date. Dance has been my biggest stress buster and at times helped me take
some of the game changing decisions in life.
I hope you have enjoyed reading, until next time.
Mansi
Nagda.
