Jinaya Babel has been matching her feet and hands to taal and rhythm from a very young age. Apart from dance, she is also passionate about music and enjoys playing the piano and guitar. Finding her expression through dance and music, she has been practising classical Odissi at the Nrityormi School of Odissi in Udaipur for the past three to four years. Currently, she is pursuing her schooling at Crossroads International School (CIS), Udaipur.

The Initiation

Young Odissi dancer Jinaya Babel shares that although she has been practising classical dance for the past three to four years, her interest in Odissi deepened after listening to a classical song from the 1990s. Fascinated by its rhythmic beats, melodious sitar, and overall musical composition, she developed a deeper passion for learning and performing the classical dance form. Having loved dancing from a very young age, Jinaya gave her passion a professional direction by enrolling in the after-school co-curricular Odissi dance classes taught by Guru Krishnendu Saha in Class 3. Encouraged by one of her classmates, she enrolled in the classes and has since continued practising classical Odissi with dedication and love.

Gurus & Role Models

Jinaya Babel considers her mentor, Guru Krishnendu Saha, to be her greatest role model. She is deeply inspired by his dedication, perseverance, and the way he has encouraged and guided her, helping her become more confident, courageous, and a better person. At the same time, Jinaya considers herself her own role model. She believes in self-growth, has immense love and respect for herself, and constantly strives to become a better version of herself through dedication and hard work.

The Talent

Youngstar Jinaya Babel shares that practising the classical dance form of Odissi has transformed her personality, making her more confident in expressing herself and giving her the courage to make independent decisions. She further shares that, through her training, she has learnt fundamental Odissi techniques such as Chauka and Tribhanga. The young artist also shares that, over time, her body gradually adapted to the postures and movements of Odissi, helping her develop greater strength, balance, patience, and grace while performing. Comparing herself to who she was before learning dance, Jinaya says she was less expressive and found it difficult to convey her emotions. However, with consistent practice, she became more expressive and learnt to immerse herself in the characters she portrays during her dance performances, allowing her to connect more deeply with the art form. Apart from dance, Jinaya believes that music helps her relax and unwind. Listening to music refreshes her mind, lifts her mood, and helps her regain the energy to begin again with renewed enthusiasm.

Achievements

Classical dancer Jinaya Babel shares that she has participated in several Annual Day celebrations, performing the classical dance form of Odissi. She has also showcased her talent at school events, including Independence Day celebrations and various cultural programmes, where she has received appreciation from her teachers and friends, which has motivated her to continue growing as a dancer. Apart from practising Odissi for the past three to four years, Jinaya successfully cleared her Prarambhik examination in Odissi dance last year, marking another milestone in her classical dance path.

A Bit More

A quote that young dancer Jinaya Babel holds close to her heart is "Dance is the hidden language of the soul”, a medium to express yourself. She also enjoys listening to classical songs by the late Lata Mangeshkar Ji, as well as traditional Odissi compositions, especially "Namami Mangalacharan," which is based on the story of Lord Shiva. Apart from being a classical dancer, Jinaya also likes to play guitar and piano. She shares a message for other young stars: "Love yourself, believe in yourself, and be confident and courageous enough to pursue your dreams."