Pursuing her masters in English Literature from MLSU, Nishtha Dhangar has also been learning Odissi dance from Virasat Ensemble - Gurukul of Performing Arts under the guidance of Shally Srivastava. She is an international artist in painting and also works as a wedding choreographer.

The Initiation

Nishtha had been interested in dance since childhood. Initially, she did dance Bollywood style and later engaged herself in Wedding Choreography. She also worked as an accompanying dancer in some movie songs. But she didn’t feel satisfied and at the time of her masters, she decided to join Virasat Ensemble in order to learn classical dance.

Gurus & Role Models

Virasat Ensemble- Gurukul of Performing Arts is the place where Nishtha learns Odissi dance under the guidance of her guru Shally Srivastava. She feels that in today’s era of modernisation it is important that we should take classical dance forms forward. She considers her mother and elder sister as her role models as they always support and motivate her. She also admires her guru Shally Shrivastava and follows her words that as being a dancer it is important to take great care of your respect and dignity. She learned a lot from her guru like body posture, speaking skills, hand movements, confidence and many more. She is also thankful to her fiance for his support and motivation.

The Talent

Odissi is a dance form in which you dedicate yourself to Lord Jagannath. The entire body is covered in Odissi's attire. It helps you to be disciplined and prepares you mentally. It is also helpful in building confidence.

Achievements

Nishtha is an international level painting artist and won the first prize every time in the national level painting competition from sixth to tenth grade. In the field of dancing, she did choreography in Mumbai and in some big weddings in Udaipur. She has also attempted the Army exams and is still preparing for civil services.

A Bit More

Nishtha says that dance provides her mental peace and it is like a medicine for her. She believes that if we do physical exercise our negativity goes down. Nishtha believes that Dance is a worship in itself and through dance you can express yourself well and invite positive vibes. She advises everyone to keep yourself engaged in something that makes you happy and follow your passion. Classical dance is like therapy that provides mental peace, so pursue it to connect with your roots. The quote that inspires and motivates her is “A true hero is the one who never gives up hope, no matter what.”