JOIN US'Reality shows are just one part of the bigger picture'
Official choreographers of rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh, Atul Jindal and Karan Kumar have choreographed his popular dance numbers like Chaar Bottle Vodka, Blue Eyes, Love Dose and Party with the Bhoothnath.
The dancing duo, who are also the founding members of ‘Big Dance Centre’, talk to Shweta Sharma about their passion for dance, the challenges of being a choreographer, and the experience of making megastar Amitabh Bachchan dance to their steps.
Excerpts:
When did you discover your love for dance?
Atul: I started dancing in school, and soon built a small team to compete in the only reality show then — Boogie Woogie, which to our surprise, we won! That ignited the initial spark, I guess. After that I never realised how deeply I got inclined towards it.
Karan: As a kid, I always admired Bollywood actors dancing, and had a secret passion towards dance. But I’d never thought of pursuing it professionally. The hope to fulfil and live my dream was realised in college where I accidentally joined the dance society and met Atul. Since then there has been no looking back.
How has your journey been?
Atul: After college we decided to get professional training from Broadway Dance Centre, New York and learn from some of the biggest names in the dance world. I always wanted to start something similar, with world class training and state-of-the-art facilities, in India, so we went on to open Big Dance in Delhi. It’s been a roller coaster ride ever since. From the first live show ever, to the many corporate and musical events, every single milestone has been deeply satisfying and rewarding.
Karan: The journey has been thoroughly fulfilling. We started learning Indian contemporary dance professionally in Delhi, after which we decided to learn western dance styles and went to New York and learnt techniques and details of contemporary, jazz, and ballet. After returning, we set up Big Dance where we have been giving authentic western dance training.
You are Honey Singh’s official choreographers, and have also taught steps to Amitabh Bachchan. How has the experience been?
Atul: It’s been an unreal experience. We had never thought we would be lucky enough to work alongside stars we have grown up watching. It’s been a wonderful journey with YoYo, and we have only grown stronger together. I think working with Mr Bachchan has been one of our biggest accomplishments which also gave us an absolutely different perspective about working with celebrities. He is the most humble, hardworking and professional artist. We got to learn so much from him.
Karan: It has been magical and extremely gratifying. Working with them has taught me work ethics, made me believe in my skills, and taught me to be honest.
What is the most challenging part of being a choreographer?
Atul: To keep yourself updated with new movements and trends, as music and dance are ever evolving. Hence, we make sure that we train ourselves every few months, as it gives us the exposure and inspiration to create new and exciting work.
What is unique about your choreography?
Atul: We are one of the only few in the industry who are trained in Indian contemporary, lyrical jazz, and also have a strong base in classical ballet. As a result, our understanding of music and movement is very different and acts as our strong point.
Karan: We believe in creating and maintaining a balance between art and commercial aspect. For example, for a corporate event we brainstorm and try to understand the requirements of the clients. And in case of a music video, we like to research and understand the artist we are choreographing for.
Are dance-based reality shows a stepping stone for dancers?
Atul: Yes. Reality shows in India have given dancers a platform to showcase their work. But it comes with an equal amount of responsibility to create and produce good quality and original art as we are the custod ians of the art for the millions of people who watch these shows.
Karan: I agree to some extent, but also feel that reality shows are just one part of the bigger picture. There is a lot more that we choreographers need to explore to make it bigger. But definitely reality shows have given choreographers a big platform to showcase their creativity.
Which actor would you like to choreograph?
Atul: I would love to work with Ranveer Singh! His infectious spark, style and energy complements our style of dance and choreography.
Karan: Deepika Padukone and Shah Rukh Khan.