Dance Guru Shiamak Davar and the prestigious IIFA Awards go back a long way. Whenever this hit partnership collaborates, it results in the audience witnessing to some of the best dancers, their dance acts and choreographies. The 16th IIFA Awards were one such event where some of the biggest stars from Bollywood, performed to the magical choreographies by the ace choreographer – Shiamak Davar.
Actors Shahid Kapoor, Sonakshi Sinha, Shraddha Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Ranveer Singh, Arjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra descended upon the beautifully crafted stage and bedazzled not only the audience but also the film fraternity alike, with their energetic and electrifying performances.
However, one particular performance that stood out from the rest, was the last act of the evening, by the very sensational Mr. Hrithik Roshan. The performance was supported by the Shiamak clan, that consists some of the best dancers in India. Upasana Madan is one such dancer, belonging to this supremely talented dance troupe.
Performing to a mashup of hit tunes from Hrithik’s movies, Upasana delighted everyone with her free flowing feet, positive confidence and the pure joy of dancing with someone as extraordinary as Mr. Hrithik Roshan.
SSZee Media is equally delighted to have caught a moment with the beautifully talented Upasana Madan.
SSZee Media: Firstly, congratulations on the success of the IIFA Awards 2015. The entire Shiamak troupe were magnificent. However, your performance with Mr. Hrithik Roshan was particularly very well appreciated. How does it feel to receive individual praises, from the usual group appreciations?
Upasana Madan: Thank you so much for your appreciation. It was an amazing experience dancing with Hrithik, as he is such a talented dancer himself. But all the credit goes to my Guru, Shiamak, who trained me and gave me this opportunity to perform on this huge platform. I can’t thank him enough!
SSZee: Your association with the Shiamak Davar Dance Academy has gone on for approximately a decade now. You started out as a trainee and now you’re one of the leading trainers in the academy. How has the journey been for you so far?
UM: I was ten years old when I enrolled as a student in Shiamak’s junior batch. It has been fifteen years since and with each passing year, the experience only gets better! This place has not only taught me dance but improved me as a person in every aspect of life. It is like one big family where we look out for each other and take care of one another.
The most exciting part about dance is that it’s we’re constantly learning. Even currently I’m a part of Shiamak’s One Year Dance Certification Program (OYP), where we learn technique and train intensively in over ten dance styles from the best faculty from the world over.
The most amazing part is that Shiamak personally teaches in the OYP and we get to learn Shiamak Style of contemporary from Shiamak himself! There is still a lot to learn as a dancer and performer, and I’m enjoying this process. Whether it is being a student, performing on stage or teaching students, I can only see myself doing this all the time, every day!
SSZee: Who has been your biggest inspiration, in your journey so far?
UM: My biggest inspiration since childhood has been Shiamak of course, who instilled the love for dance and helped me nurture my talent. Just seeing him perform and choreograph still leaves me speechless.
Also, Aneesha Dalal, who is the Principal Dancer of The Shiamak Davar Dance Company, has always been a constant source of inspiration. Her grace, stage presence and fitness have always set a benchmark.
SSZee: You have trained many superstars, as well as performed with them. Who has been your favourite/s?
UM: I have had the opportunity to train many stars, but I’d say Hrithik would have to be on top of that list for me! This is not because I recently performed with him but because his commitment is always one hundred percent.
Even though he is a fabulous dancer, he still works hard and rehearses a lot, this dedication is very inspiring. And after every performance, he always comes backstage to meet and thank all the members of the dance company.
SSZee: An artist you would love to train/perform with?
UM: I think each artist you train or perform with, you learn something new.
SSZee: You took part in the reality show Dance Premier League on Star Plus, back in 2009. Even then your performances were very well received. Is there any chance, the audience might see you on something similar? Perhaps as a judge on a dance reality show?
UM: I think it is very important to gain knowledge and experience before judging a competition. Right now I’m in the process of honing my dancing skills and training each day.
SSZee: On a parting note, an advice for all the aspiring dancers out there?
UM: Follow your heart and live your dreams!
Interview was conducted by Sadia Chowdhury for SSZee Media London.
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