Bengaluru boys have made it to the top slot in the dance reality show, ‘High fever-dance ka naya tevar’ on &TV. Twenty-year-old Faizan Malik and his 10-year-old student Likith D Jain were selected from among 70 contestants. The judges were indeed impressed with their innovative moves and trend-setting performances. The boys are all set to take on the challenge, and say that they can’t wait to bring home the cup. In an interview with Metrolife, Faizan talks about their journey so far.
How did the two of you meet?
I met Likith when I was conducting a workshop for children last year. I saw immense talent in him and we decided to work together. So, here we are going strong.
What makes you both different from other contestants?
I didn’t find the other contestants that entertaining. While some do emotional acts, others get into a romantic mode. But what sets us apart is that we strike a balance between our dance and comedy acts. People go crazy and have a good time watching us. Even judges say that they can’t wait to see the characters we pick for our performances.
What were the challenges that you faced?
I have people to look after at home, so when I started I did not have any teacher, I am a self-taught dancer. Likith, who is a premature baby, has difficulties when we practice for long hours. And keeping in mind the competition, we have to get better with every level, to move to the next one. It’s a challenge to come up with something new and innovative every time we hit the dance floor. And things can get tough when it’s a duet. We have to also focus on matching our steps to make sure nothing is amiss.
What are some of your other interests?
I enjoy traveling, taking short naps and meeting new people. Likith loves playing cricket, video games and watches a lot of cartoons.
How many hours a day do you practice?
It changes. For this show, we put in at least 10 to 12 hours a day. And on some days, it goes up to 14.
Your journey so far...
The journey has been great. There were many ups and downs in the beginning. It was difficult for Likith to warm up to the stage presence, costumes and with hundreds of people staring at you, it can get a bit difficult. But he has overcome all that now, and we are better than ever before.
Do you both miss home?
Yes, of course, we miss Bengaluru and Likith misses his home more than me because he has been away for more than two months.
What are your future plans?
I am going to continue dancing and may move to Mumbai. Likith is going to concentrate on his studies and later pursue dancing. Till then he is going to keep dancing and learn more stuff.
