Bust A Move With Bollywood Dance Teacher Rajani Ravikumar

Okay, so I had never ever even considered Bollywood dance, but when I saw it on the Festival Programme I knew that I needed to give it a try. Despite my utter lack of Bollywood style, it was one of the most enjoyable classes of the Edinburgh Wellbeing Festival.

What is Bollywood Dance?

Bollywood dance is used in Bollywood films (the second largest film industry in the world!). It is a fusion of styles including a bit of Indian folk dance, Kathak, and Bhangra. It can even include Western influences like hip-hop, belly dance, etc. As Rajani said, there’s no such thing as true Bollywood Dance as it always incorporates many different styles.

The 30-second routine that we learned at the festival was a fusion of Bollywood and Bhangra. Bhangra is full of energy and features a constant light bounce. Even a 30-second routine is enough to make me (especially as a novice) feel winded!

What’s so Special About Bollywood Dance?

First of all, Bollywood dance is all about having a good time. It’s more important to smile and be sassy than nail the moves. Rajani’s class certainly involved a lot of laughing and, of course, sass. Moves include blowing kisses, walking like a diva, and even flipping your hair.

In fact, Rajani considers her hair to be part of the dance and it wasn’t long before we all let our hair down (metaphorically and physically)!

Want to Try Bollywood Dance?

Even if you missed the Edinburgh Wellbeing Festival, Rajani teaches a regular class at Dancebase. You can catch her class on Tuesday evenings at 18.30 (drop-in available).

Check it out here

 

Kathryn Strachan