‘I wish to be called the next gidhiyan di rani’

She makes the spectators go gaga and gasp with her dance moves at such a ripe age. Meet Ashmaira who is studying in class I at Apeejay School, Tanda Road. The young danseuse won the first prize in the event ‘Teeyan Da Mela’ held at VPO Nainowal Jattan, District Hoshiarpur. In a candid interview, the six-year-old shares how her mother is the wind beneath her wings.

Read edited excerpts here.

Tell us about your recent achievement in dance.

I have participated in three events so far at the state level and won accolades in them. Most recently I won the coveted event ‘Teeyan Da Mela’ held at Hoshiarpur.

Who is your inspiration?

My mom and my dance teacher are my biggest support system and inspiration behind my pursuing giddha.

What does your practice regime look like?

I practice daily for approximately two hours. First, I learn at my school during the dance period and then after coming back home under my dance guru.

Who is your favourite celebrity?

I love old songs by Miss Surinder Kaur. Her voice holds a different kind of magic which is mesmerising. During our free time, me and my mother sit down and listen to her songs on a loop.

Do you want to pursue dance as a profession?

Yes, I would love to pursue this dance form as a profession in future and represent my tradition at national and international events.

Which dance form do you perform?

I mostly perform Punjabi folk dance, also popularly known as giddha.

How did Apeejay support you?

My dance teacher is very supportive and talented alongside our school coordinators Miss Shikha and Deepti Kaushal who have always encouraged me to learn dance and keep showcasing it at various festivals and events.