Dehradun: : On International Dance Day (April 29), dancers in the city shared how dance shapes their lives. While classical forms like Kathak and Bharatanatyam remain part of the cultural fabric, hip-hop and freestyle dominate among the youth.For 16-year-old Mansha, dance builds confidence and resilience. “I have to stand in front of people without fear of judgment. On days when everything feels overwhelming, dancing gives me a sense of control. It has quietly been building who I am. It made me more patient, because progress could be slow and sometimes frustrating,” she said.Teachers say interest in dance has grown with social media, as more students now see it as a serious pursuit. “Dance is more accessible today. A talented artist can record a performance on a phone and share it with people across the world,” says Charu Sharma, 54, a Kathak dancer.Priya Sharma, a teacher associated with the Lucknow gharana, says a strong bond between student and teacher is important. “I was very attached to my teacher and learned everything from her. Today, academic pressure and other distractions make it harder for children to build such connections,” she said.Looking ahead, artists see technology reshaping the art. Kshitij Chopra, founder of Dehradun Academy of Dance, predicts greater use of graphics, AI tools, and online classes. “Technology should support creativity, not replace it,” he said.
