It is said that the language of dance is universal and can be understood by one and all. Dance knows no boundaries and has no gender or colour preferences. It goes beyond these mundane beliefs and dance enthusiasts come together to celebrate the joy of dance. I realised this over a period of time, after having interacted with international artistes when they came to India.
I had the good fortune of teaching them a few dance moves. I consider myself a lucky dance teacher because the who’s who of the international music world have been my students, right from Shakira to Beyonce and Kenny G to Madonna. It all seems like a dream now, but I have to thank God for my good fortunes.
However, when I look back at my first dance class at 6 am with Shakira or the midnight class with Kenny G, or my sessions with the queen of pop Madonna and the controversial dance rehearsal with Britney Spears in Jodhpur, the common thread that links them, is their fascination for India and its people.
I remember Beyonce telling me that she perceived India to be very orthodox, but was surprised to learn from her friend Shakira that her concert was well-appreciated and that people were huge fans of international artistes. After her visit, she totally changed her outlook towards India.
However, while Beyonce sounded skeptical in the beginning, Madonna was at home from the moment she landed in India. So much so that there were talks about Madonna adopting an Indian baby. Despite a stomach problem Kenny G still could not resist the Indian spicy food and even offered me hot spicy rasam after a dance session.
I sometimes wonder what makes India so attractive to international celebrities? Madonna clarified that doubt, when she told me that she believed that Bollywood was the most exciting place. Shakira told me that she found Bollywood song and dance sequences captivating and magical.
India is no more a country where people are conventional and negligent, it is a place where fresh, creative and imaginative talent thrives and are recognised. I feel privileged that I am one of those lucky few. When I was called to choreograph the upcoming Broadway musical Bruce lee; Journey to the West, I was told that India is an untapped virgin market and this is one country that people should look forward to.