Interview to Dance Celebrity: Suchana Shetty by Sachin Chaturvedi
Suchana Shetty: A Dance Enthusiast and Multi-Talented Artist
Suchana, Can you tell us about your family background and how they have influenced your life?
Suchana: I am fortunate to be the sole child in my family, receiving unwavering support and guidance from my parents. My incredible mother, has always been my rock. My journey continues with my spouse, Sudesh Chorge, whom I’ve known since school days. Together, we are blessed with two wonderful sons who bring boundless joy to our lives. My family’s love and support have been instrumental in shaping who I am today.
Your journey in the world of dance has been remarkable. Can you take us back to the beginning? How did your love for dance evolve, and when did you decide to pursue it as a career?
Suchana: Dance has been an integral part of my life since I was introduced to it at the age of 9. What started as a simple activity to ensure I ate well after rehearsals quickly became my passion. I achieved my Bharata Natyam Arangetram at 11, and from there, my journey in dance took off.
Winning Boogie Woogie and choreographing numerous dances for my school’s annual day during my 9th grade were significant milestones that solidified my love for dance. Pursuing my graduation in Bharata Natyam was a natural progression, as it allowed me to delve deeper into an art form that brings me immense joy.
My path eventually led me to become a dance educationist, a role that feels like a perfect fit. Through my experiences, I’ve come to understand the profound impact dance can have on one’s life, and I’m dedicated to sharing that joy with others.
You have a diverse skill set, being an actress, choreographer, fitness instructor, and more. How do you balance these different roles in your life, and what aspect of your career do you find most fulfilling?
Suchana: Balancing roles as an actor, dance educationist, dance fitness trainer, and business entrepreneur may seem like a juggling act, but for me, they seamlessly intertwine and complement one another. Finding fulfillment in each of these diverse roles to the interconnectedness of my passions.
Whether its stage performances, choreographing dance routines for television, films and events, or sharing my expertise with students in schools across India, every aspect of my work contributes to my overarching dedication to creativity and expression.
As a dance fitness instructor, I’m privileged to guide others on their fitness journeys, while being an actor allow me to explore different avenues of storytelling and performance.
Ultimately, I’ve discovered that each role enriches the others, fostering a holistic approach to my career and personal fulfillment.”
You had participated in Dance Deewane Season 3, one of India’s largest dance shows. What motivated you to join the show, and how has the experience been so far?
Suchana: Participating in the competition was a personal journey for me, a way to gauge my dancing skills at the age of 40. ( Haha) I wanted to see if I still had what it takes, and what better way to test myself than by competing against the younger generation? The support of both my mom and my mother-in-law was invaluable in giving me the courage to pursue this challenge.
It’s crucial for every woman to make time for her passions and do what she loves, and this competition was my way of doing just that. The experience has been nothing short of phenomenal. Working with different choreographers each week was a unique opportunity, and dancing alongside Vaishnavi Patil was an absolute pleasure.
Receiving praise and feedback from esteemed judges like Madhuri Dixit, Tushar Kalia, and Dharmesh Yelande has been incredibly rewarding. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and growth, and I’m grateful for every moment of it.
In Dance Deewane season 3, you were titled as “Lavni Ki Apsara” by the judges. Can you share your thoughts and feelings when you received this title, and how has it influenced your approach to dance?
Suchana: Being crowned ‘Lavni Ki Apsara’ on Dance Deewane Season 3 was an incredibly humbling and thrilling experience for me. Lavani, with its vibrant energy and expressive movements, holds a special place in traditional dance forms.
I was fortunate that the show provided me with a platform and a unique opportunity to showcase Lavani in combination with different styles, such as Cabaret, Flamenco, Vogue, Belly, Indian Semi-classical, and even elements inspired by Michael Jackson’s styleadding a fresh twist to Lavani’s traditional essence.
Moreover, I had the chance to convey meaningful stories through my performances on the show. Among my favorites is a piece inspired by the life of Nritya Samradhini Vithabai Narayan Gavkar, a legendary figure in Lavani.
Overall, the journey on Dance Deewane Season 3 was a rewarding exploration of creativity, tradition, and storytelling through dance. I truly feel blessed.
Can you share some memorable moments from your journey on Dance Deewane Season 3? Any challenges you faced and how you overcame them?
Suchana: The journey on Dance Deewane was like riding a roller coaster, full of unexpected twists and challenges. Despite premiering in February 2022, we were soon hit by the second wave of COVID-19 and subsequent lockdowns. Despite the uncertainties and fears surrounding COVID-19, our passion and determination kept us going. Despite facing setbacks like a serious back injury during rehearsals, I persevered, and it truly paid off. Alongside my dance partner Vaishnavi, we made it to the top 6 finalists, with me being the last one standing in Generation 3.
Every episode of Dance Deewane Season 3 holds a special place in my heart. The love and support from the audience, the positive feedback from the judges, and the unwavering support of those around me fueled my motivation and encouraged me throughout this incredible journey. I am immensely grateful for this experience.
You’ve been a part of various dance reality shows like Boogie Woogie and Just Dance. How do these experiences differ from each other, and what unique aspects do you think you bring to each show?
Suchana: Participating in various dance reality shows has been an enriching journey, each offering unique experiences shaped by the show’s format, concept, and the age groups I competed in. Every stage presented fresh challenges and opportunities for growth, making each competition a valuable learning experience. From navigating different show patterns to adapting to diverse age groups, each show has contributed to my growth as a dancer and as an individual.
I’ve been fortunate to have diverse experiences in the realm of choreography, including the opportunity to collaborate with renowned choreographer duo Bosco Caesar on the dance reality show Chak Dhoom Dhoom. Over a span of six years, I worked alongside them, gaining invaluable insights into the art of choreography.
Additionally, I’ve contributed my choreographic skills reality shows such as Just Dance and Footloose. Most recently, as an assistant choreographer for Dance India Dance Moms.
These experiences have not only honed my choreographic abilities but have also provided me with a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in creating captivating dance routines for television.
Besides your successful stint in dance reality shows, you’ve also showcased your acting skills in Crime Patrol. How do you switch between the roles of a dancer and an actress, and do you have a preference for one over the other?
Suchana:. Whether I’m dancing or acting, the common thread is my passion for performance and expression. While dance allows me to express myself physically, acting provides an opportunity to explore different emotions. I cherish both and believe they complement each other, making me a more versatile artist.
Who is your dance partner, and what aspects of your collaboration make it unique?
As a dynamic duo in the dance education realm since 2011, Santhosh Anchan and I have embarked on a journey marked by versatility and collaboration. Alongside our roles as co-owners of Avighnaa, The Creative Hub and Soochana Santhosh Dance Company, we’ve made significant strides in teaching across numerous schools in India. What sets us apart is our remarkable adaptability and seamless communication. Our partnership thrives on individual ingenuity, yet remarkably, about 80% of our ideas resonate harmoniously. This synergy underscores our effective management style and ensures our shared vision flourishes in every endeavor we undertake. Our motivation stems from the joy we experience when witnessing the growth and development of our students in their dance journey.
You run your own dance institute, NRITYALAYA, and are involved in various other creative ventures. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind starting NRITYALAYA and your experience in nurturing young talent?
Suchana: NRITYALAYA, which means ‘House of Dancers,’ is my way of giving back to the community and nurturing the next generation of dancers. The inspiration came from my own journey—having received guidance and training, I wanted to create a space where aspiring dancers could learn and grow. It’s immensely fulfilling to see young talents blossom and pursue their passion for dance.
As a co-owner of Avighnaa- The Creative Hub, you are involved in various artistic disciplines. How do you integrate dance, fitness, art, and Edu-learning in your creative hub, and what kind of impact do you aim to create through these diverse offerings?
Suchana: Avighnaa- The Creative Hub is a holistic space where we aim to nurture not just dance but creativity in its various forms. We integrate dance, fitness, art, and education to provide a well-rounded experience for our students. Our goal is to create a positive impact by fostering creativity, self-expression, and a healthy lifestyle. We believe that the arts can be a powerful tool for personal growth and community building.
You have collaborated with various dancers and artists. How do these collaborations contribute to your growth as a dancer and an instructor?
Suchana: Collaborations are opportunities for mutual learning and growth. Working with different dancers and artists exposes me to diverse styles and perspectives, enhancing my own skills. It broadens my understanding of the art form and allows me to bring fresh ideas and techniques to my students. Collaborations also create a sense of community and camaraderie within the dance industry.
Your involvement as a fitness instructor, particularly as a Zumba and Functional Fitness instructor, reflects your commitment to a healthy lifestyle. How do you balance dance and fitness, and how do these two aspects complement each other in your life?
Suchana: Balancing dance and fitness is all about taking a comprehensive approach to wellness. While dance is a fantastic form of exercise, incorporating Zumba and Functional strength training adds an extra dimension of cardio and strength training essential for everyday activities. Together, they enhance my overall fitness and mental well-being. As a fitness instructor, I have the privilege of spreading the love of movement to others, advocating for a vibrant and active lifestyle.
What are the key qualities and accomplishments that define a dance educationist in today’s context?
I believe that maintaining a dedication to learning and exploring, even after gaining experience in the field, is crucial. In today’s digital age, with abundant resources available on the internet, it’s essential to stay proactive in understanding the complexities and subtle aspects of the art form. Being curious and constantly seeking knowledge about the whys, how’s, and wherefores of our craft is key to staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of dance.
Social media plays a significant role in your journey. How do platforms like Instagram contribute to your connection with your audience, and what message do you aim to convey through your posts?
Suchana: Instagram is a wonderful platform to connect with my audience directly. I use it to share not only my performances but also snippets of my daily life, including moments with my students, kids, and dance journey. Through my posts, I aim to convey the joy, passion, and hard work that goes into dance. I want to inspire others to pursue their passions and lead a positive, active lifestyle.
You’ve been a judge in various events. What criteria do you look for in a performance, and what advice do you often find yourself giving to aspiring dancers?
Suchana: As a judge, I look for a combination of technical skill, expression, and originality. A memorable performance is one that not only showcases the dancer’s technique but also conveys a genuine connection with the audience. My advice to aspiring dancers is always to stay true to themselves, work hard, and embrace the joy of dancing. It’s not just about perfecting moves but about expressing oneself authentically.
Looking back at your journey, what are the key lessons you’ve learned, and what advice would you give to young individuals aspiring to make a career in dance and the performing arts?
Suchana: The key lessons I’ve learned are perseverance, dedication, and the importance of staying true to one’s passion. To aspiring dancers, I would say: Be open to learning, embrace challenges, and always dance from the heart. Success in the performing arts comes not just from skill but from the authenticity and passion you bring to your craft.
Finally, what are your future plans and aspirations? Any upcoming projects or goals you’d like to share with your fans?
Suchana: I have exciting plans for the future! I aim to continue spreading the joy of dance through my institute and creative hub. There are also some collaborative projects in the pipeline, including workshops and events. My ultimate goal is to inspire more people to embrace dance and creativity as a part of their lives. I’m grateful for the support of my fans and look forward to sharing many more dance-filled moments with them. This brings us to the end of our interview with the incredible Suchana Shetty-Chorge. We wish her continued success in all her endeavors and eagerly await to witness more of her captivating performances. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, Suchana!