Dance: The New Celebrated Profession in India, as Seen By Mukti and Shakti Mohan
Worldwide Dance Celebration: Shakti and Mukti Mohan hail the newfound appreciation for various dance styles
In India, the dance industry has finally started receiving the recognition it deserves, and sisters Mukti (37) and Shakti Mohan (39) are thrilled about it.
Today, on International Dance Day, Mukti observes a significant change - "Dancers are no longer viewed as nachaniya, naachne wale, or even worse - item girls. Respect may have come late, but now, we're recognized as performers and guardians of art."
Joining in, Shakti echoes her thoughts and emphasizes the importance of nurturing the next generation in Indian classical forms. "Everyone should learn classical forms like Bharatanatyam", she states, adding, "Our eldest sister Neeti di got us started with it, and it was followed by ballet, jazz, and more."
The sisters believe that dance is turning the spotlight on itself. "Dance numbers used to be called fillers, but they're now the foundation of films, plays, and shows. The rapid increase in dance enthusiasts signals that the fire inside will keep burning. We're glad to be among those guiding them at our academy, Nritya Shakti", they share.
Over the years, the duo has carved a niche for themselves as solo artists and a pair. Mukti attributes their success to the lack of shortcuts - "Dance requires constant learning and unlearning. Every week, we rehearse together and create Reels to help our followers learn new techniques. Practice should never stop."
The changing perspective towards dance as a professional career is undoubtedly a transformation that is redefining India's arts industry:
- Cultural Ambassadors: Indian classical dances such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi are becoming cultural representatives of India, fostering international appreciation and understanding of India's rich heritage.
- Career Opportunities: The recognition of dance has opened avenues for dancers, choreographers, and related professionals across the globe through performances, teaching opportunities, and cultural events.
- Modern Twist: The dynamism of dance has led to creative blends of tradition and modernity, catering to a diverse audience and expanding the boundaries of the arts industry.
Mukti and Shakti Mohan, with their roots in tradition and their feet in contemporary styles, embody the journey of this evolving landscape:
- Shakti Mohan, the second season winner of dance reality show "Dance India Dance", has demonstrated the potential that lies in blending traditional and modern dance forms.
- Mukti Mohan, another notable figure, has made her mark in the dance world through her reality TV shows and dance projects. Both sisters have used their influence to encourage dance as a viable career path.
The recognition and transformation of dance as a profession have paved the way for artists like the Mohan sisters to flourish and contributed significantly to the growth of India's dynamic arts industry.
- The change in perspective towards dance as a profession in India is not only redefining the arts industry but also making it a significant part of international entertainment, with dances like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi becoming cultural representatives of India.
- The professional recognition of dance has opened up a plethora of opportunities for dancers, choreographers, and related professionals, both in India and across the globe, through performances, teaching opportunities, and cultural events.
- Mukti and Shakti Mohan, with their roots in traditional dance forms and feet in contemporary styles, are emblematic of the evolving dance landscape in India, demonstrating the potential that lies in blending traditional and modern dance forms.
- Shakti Mohan, the second season winner of the dance reality show "Dance India Dance", has shown that by integrating traditional and modern dance forms, artists can create a dynamic and compelling performance that resonates with a diverse audience.
- Mukti Mohan, another notable figure in the dance world, has used reality TV shows and dance projects to not only establish herself as a successful artist but also encourage dance as a viable career path for others, contributing to the growth of India's dynamic arts industry.
