Serenade

Over the years, my hobbies, like dance, swimming, and painting, have become more than just activities. They are experiences that shape who I am, teaching me patience, resilience, and joy

Dance

Dance has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Even before I knew how to speak, I would jump to rhythm of beats. As a kid, I would watch music videos on the TV and try to copy the steps from the actresses. During my schooltime, I participated in various dance programs and even choregraphed performances for kids and juniors. As a shy and underconfident child, dance was a place where I felt confident and truly myself, it was my way of expressing who I truly was. That’s why it has remained such a valuable part of my life.

The grace with which classical dancers perform has always fascinated me as a child. I always wanted to learn a classical form that carried both grace and tradition. Kathak had always fascinated me, the storytelling through expressions, the intricate footwork, and the elegance and grace with which they spin. So when I got the opportunity to attend a Kathak workshop at IIT Indore, I couldn’t have been happier. The workshop led by Vid. Gauri Diwakar under the SPICMACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) movement, this movement brings world-class artists to institutions, inspiring young minds to connect with the timeless traditions. Each session felt like coming home, except the “home” was myself. In those moments, there was nothing else – no noise, no thoughts, just me, the music, and the dance. I was nothing, and yet I was everything. It was a beautiful experience. Through the workshop I also learned a bit about the history of this dance form, how different ruling empires influenced and added a flavor to it.

At the end of the workshop, we did a performance on Guru Brahma and a beautiful Thumri. Standing on stage, dressed in traditional attire, I felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. As the music began, I let my whole being embody the words of the song, conveying its message through expression, graceful movement, and love. Even though it was a short workshop, I loved every bit of it and tried to soak in as much as I could.

I wish and hope to learn Kathak more deeply in the future and lose myself in its timeless beauty.

(Here is a picture of ma’am with the students.)

Swimming

Swimming has been a surprising and rewarding part of my life. I had always wanted to learn it, and during my time at IIT Indore, I finally got the opportunity. At first, it felt a bit scary as the thought of being in deep water was overwhelming. But with time, patience, and encouragement, what once frightened me slowly turned into something I began to look forward to.

The first few lessons were filled with hesitation, but each small step gave me confidence – floating for a few seconds, moving my arms correctly, or finally taking a lap without stopping. Slowly, the fear dissolved, and swimming transformed from something intimidating into something freeing. Today, it has become one of my favorite activities.

There is something incredibly calming about being in water – it feels as if the world outside fades away, leaving only me and the soothing rhythm of each stroke. The pool became a place where I could challenge myself, clear my thoughts, and simply enjoy the joy of movement.

Looking back, I’m grateful I didn’t let fear stop me. Swimming has not only given me a new skill but also taught me resilience, patience, and the joy of overcoming my own doubts.

Painting 🎨

Painting has been a gentle teacher in my life. It taught me patience.

I may not paint every day, but whenever I do, I enjoy the calm it brings. Each piece is a small step, and over time, these brushstrokes have become a quiet way of expressing myself.

Here are a few of my paintings, and I plan to add more as I continue this journey.