BeyondBooks: ‘I am inspired by Lord Shiva, the supreme dancer’

With mesmerising rhythm and infectious grace, Bhavin Gupta of Class I at Apeejay School, Tanda Road, captivates every audience he performs for. In an exclusive and candid interview, he opens up about the beginnings of his dance journey, sharing his passion, dedication, and the sheer joy he experiences with each milestone, making his artistic pursuit both inspiring and delightfully enchanting.

Share about your recent achievement in dance.

I recently achieved second position in a solo dance competition organised by the National Dance Sports Council of India. Competing in the semi-classical category, this achievement reflects my dedication, consistent practice, and passion for dance, motivating me to continue striving for excellence in my artistic journey.

Who inspired you to pursue this art form?

I have always been deeply passionate about dance, especially devotional and semi-classical forms. My inspiration comes from my desire to express devotion through movement, performing on divine themes and godly compositions. Dance, for me, is a spiritual practice that connects art, faith, and self-expression.

Who is your favourite dancer and why?

My favourite dancer is Lord Shiva in his form as Nataraj, the cosmic dancer. His dance represents creation, preservation, and destruction, symbolising the rhythm of the universe. Nataraj inspires me with the perfect balance of power, grace, devotion, and spiritual depth expressed through every movement.

Do you want to make a career in this field?

Dance is my passion and a cherished hobby that brings me joy, peace, and creative expression. While I may not pursue it as a full-time career, I wish to continue learning, performing, and growing as a dancer, keeping this beautiful art form as an important and fulfilling part of my life.

How did your school support your journey?

I am truly blessed to have a wonderful teacher and coach who believed in me, guided me patiently, and trained me with dedication and perfection. I am equally thankful to Apeejay School for providing me with opportunities to perform on big stages. The constant encouragement, motivation, and support from my teachers and school have helped me dream big and grow confidently at every step of my journey.

Share your training regime.

My training regime is guided by my dance teacher, who prepares me with great dedication and creativity. Each practice session is enjoyable, playful, and disciplined, focusing on technique, expression, and innovative movements. This joyful learning process helps me improve continuously while keeping my passion for dance alive.