It was a history class in college that changed Arun Kumar’s life forever. While the lecturer was expounding on the glory of the Hoysalas, the sound of music from a parked vehicle outside his classroom window grabbed his attention.
Oblivious to his surroundings, he began snapping his fingers and tapping his foot and soon enough, had an audience for his performance. “My lecturer asked me to go up to the front of the classroom and dance. And I did.
Instead of taking it as a punishment, I actually enjoyed myself and so did the others including my lecturer,” shares Arun.
That was when Arun knew that he not only had the potential to be a good dancer, but it was his destiny. “I realised that it was my dream job and ever since, have worked to pursue it.”
Arun currently trains in Bollywood dance at Energy gym and Alliance Francaise in Vasanthnagar apart from regular classes at several IT companies in the City.
With over 10 years in this profession, he feels people are now beginning to understand the concept of Bollywood dance and realise its various benefits. “Dance is a fun way to burn those extra calories and stay fit. It works as a useful tool when your self-confidence needs a boost and is a great place to socialise and meet interesting people (smiles),” he says.
Arun’s class draws a lot of expats too. “They come to learn Bollywood dance, which they hear about as soon as they land in India. They know it as a fun, but robust dance and they really enjoy themselves in our classes,” he says.
As for inhibitions and fear of not doing it right, Arun, who calls his team ‘Zealers, passion to move’, says, a couple of classes will get you rid of that. “For those who want to pursue dance on a more professional level, I always tell them that it is here (at the training) that you can make mistakes and get it right.”
A career much in contrast to IT professionals and engineers that comprise Arun’s family, he is thoroughly content with his chosen path. “It wasn’t easy when I started but, yes things fell into place with a lot of hardwork and support from friends who helped me get clients.
And now they keep coming back to my classes and recommend it to other people too. The most important reason for that is me. They are enamoured by my charming personality (laughs)!
“That apart, it’s also because of the comfort level I create and constantly add new moves to keep up their enthusiasm levels,” he says.
As part of his long term vision, Arun hopes to be part of the film industry as a choreographer or even the lead actor. “I have been an assistant choreographer for two Kannada films — Shivarajkumar starrer ‘Yuvaraja’ and Vishnuvardhan’s ‘Paruva’. The Kannada film industry and Bollywood is where I want to be.”
Arun, who also has a few classes at the Bangalore School of Music, is looking at doing the same in a few other areas in the City, one being Koramangala.
Also part of the plan is to start Bollywood Salsa that will have a touch of Indian as well as Salsa in both the music and dance. For details call: 98804-36862 / 99001-04600.
