BeyondBooks: ‘School supports my talent with opportunities to perform’

She is, at present, in Class IX studying at Apeejay School, Noida. She has been interested in dance, whether it be classical or western, since the age of three and performing on the stage since she was five. Besides dancing, she is the Brand Ambassador of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Ghaziabad region) and her hobbies include playing badminton, writing poems or books. Meet Mansavi Tyagi.

In an impromptu interview, this youngest author and editor recognised by the World Book of Records, London and the Bravo Book of World Records, talks about her journey as a kathak dancer.

What do you enjoy most about learning kathak?

I love the footwork and spins part the most because I love learning new tatkaar and chakkars. Moreover, I am a world-record holder in doing 1,000 chakkars continuously at the age of seven.

Which tukda, tora, or tihai did you find most interesting to learn this term, and why?

I find one of the tihai’s of ektaal, which I learnt in my recent year of Kathak, exciting. It was very hard to learn at first, but when I finally did, I honestly practised it so many times and made myself perfect; as a result, I felt amazing with myself.

How have you improved in your footwork clarity and rhythm since the beginning of the year?

I have been performing at almost every event in school since Class II, so my footwork and rhythm are sharp and confident; however, I practice on repeat and keep on learning new things to upgrade myself.

 Can you describe a performance or practice moment that made you feel confident or proud?

At one Inter-school competition, we arrived late and missed the earlier performances, but the moment we started our piece, the judges’ excited expressions sparked new energy in us. Their warm response boosted our confidence, and our classical choreography on Shankar Ati Prachand earned heartfelt praise.

What challenges have you faced in mastering kathak?

Since I have been dancing for a long time, I don’t remember any challenges. But expressions are a whole other thing. It was tough for me to express my emotions at the beginning. But I finally handled it after I started feeling the lyrics of the songs or the bol of the kavit.

What skills have you learnt because of dance?

It has taught me discipline, focus, patience and being grounded. I’ve also learnt better body coordination, timing, and confidence while performing in front of others.

How does the school support your interest?

My school supports my interest by giving me chances to perform and urging me to join dance activities. My teacher motivates me and has taught Bharatnatyam, Odissi, and folk forms like Gondhal and Biju. The school also provides space and time for practice whenever needed.