As we step into 2025, I take a moment to reflect on the year gone by—one filled with both challenges and moments of deep gratitude. 2024 marked a personal milestone for me—60 years since my Arangetram—and it was also a year of pause, introspection, and healing after a broken bone forced me to slow down. But through travel, encounters with new art forms, and witnessing the evolving dance world, I’ve come to appreciate the immense power of resilience and reflection.

In this episode, I share my experiences from the Serendipity Arts Festival, the rich cultural rituals of Kaisika Natakam, and my thoughts on the changing dynamics of classical dance. I also remember the indelible legacies of dance legends like Astad Deboo and Sunil Kothari, whose absence I still feel deeply.

I reflect on the evolving space for classical dance, the challenge of staying true to tradition while embracing the modern world, and the lessons I’ve learned about mentorship, authenticity, and the importance of community in the life of an artist.

As I look ahead to the future, I share my personal musings on how we can keep the heart of dance alive in these rapidly changing times. Tune in for a mix of inspiration, nostalgia, and insight as I continue to navigate my journey in the arts and life.

In this episode, I speak of tradition as a living, breathing entity—something that evolves, adapts, and yet remains anchored. In this episode, I reflect on the struggles of young dancers navigating the pressures of social media, the need for critical mentorship, and how we as senior artists must guide the next generation without losing sight of our roots. The arts are not static—they are resilient, relevant, and ever-changing.

In this November edition, I reflect on how dancers navigate today’s turbulent times. With political, financial, and health challenges, I emphasize the resilience artists need and the importance of staying true to our cultural roots. I call for solidarity among dancers, a commitment to inclusivity, and a renewed focus on introspection. Dance, I believe, is a sanctuary—a powerful response to adversity that reinforces personal and cultural strength.