Credit: Special Arrangement
A disciple of Pandit Birju Maharaj, actor Arushi Nishank is a notable exponent in Kathak. She shot to fame with her music video Wafa Na Raas Aaye by singer Jubin Nautiyal, that netted in over 350 million views on YouTube. The actor wields her wattage as a social activist and environment conservationist, committing time to her NGO, Sparsh Ganga and spearheading tree-planting drives.
Shilpi Madan caught up with her for this chat.
How has the journey been so far in the world of glamour?
The journey has been nothing short of incredible! From dance to acting to producing films, each step has been a learning experience. While glamour is an integral part of the entertainment industry, I believe the real magic lies in hard work, perseverance and the love of storytelling. Seeing my work resonate with people has been truly fulfilling.
Acting, dance, poetry - what fascinates you the most?
It’s difficult to choose because each of these art forms holds a special place in my heart. Dance is my soul, acting allows me to step into different characters and poetry gives me a voice to express emotions deeply. But if I had to pick one, Kathak has always been my first love - it’s not just a dance form but a spiritual journey for me.
What was the experience like - shooting for Jubin Nautiyal’s video and watching it go viral?
Shooting for ‘Wafa Na Raas Aayi’ was an incredible experience! The song itself is so soulful, and working with a talented team made it even more special. I didn’t expect it to go so viral, but the love and appreciation from the audience was truly heartwarming. It reaffirmed my belief that good content always finds its way to people’s hearts.
What has been the turning point in your career?
There have been several defining moments, but my Bollywood debut with Tarini was a major turning point. It was a project close to my heart, and working on it as both an actor and producer was a transformative experience. Also, my first music video going viral gave me recognition on a national level.
What is your fitness routine?
Fitness is a non-negotiable part of my lifestyle. I follow a mix of strength training, yoga and dance workouts. Kathak itself is an excellent form of exercise, helping with flexibility and endurance. I also focus on mindful eating and staying hydrated. Fitness is not just about physical strength but also mental well-being.
How many languages do you speak?
I speak Hindi, English and Garhwali fluently. I love picking up new languages when I travel or work on diverse projects.
What has been your biggest learning?
Patience and resilience. The industry is unpredictable, and there are highs and lows. But if you stay dedicated to your craft and keep working hard, opportunities will come your way. Also, staying true to yourself is crucial - authenticity is what makes an artist stand out.
A piece of advice your parents gave you…
My parents always told me, ‘stay humble, stay grounded, and let your work speak for itself’. That advice has shaped me as a person and as an artist. No matter how much success you achieve, it’s important to remember your roots.
A pearl of wisdom for those who aspire to be in your shoes…
Believe in yourself, be consistent and never stop learning. The entertainment industry is competitive, but passion and hard work always shine through. Also, patience is the key - things don’t happen overnight, but if you stay focused, your time will come.
What’s next?
There’s a lot in the pipeline! My film Tarini is something I’m really excited about. Apart from acting, I continue to work on meaningful projects through Himshrii Films. And of course, there are more music videos and collaborations on the way.
The OTT space has revolutionised storytelling giving artists the freedom to explore diverse and meaningful roles. I am always open to great scripts whether in Bollywood OTT or regional cinema Arushi Nishank
Credit: special Arrangement