Renowned and highly talented Kathak dancer, Mr Mayur Vaidya exclusively interacted with Spectralhues. This interview was taken during Enriching Minds, an interdisciplinary educational event presented by the Arts Association of Ramnivas Ruia Junior College.
Mr Mayur, welcome to Spectralhues. Before commencing with the interview, I would like you to introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a good dancer and then a Kathak dancer. Besides that, I am a choreographer and a good performer. That’s my identity- that’s Mayur Vaidya.
I love performing, I love myself and I love my audience: Mayur Vaidya
What went into becoming a well-known Kathak dancer?
I don’t know about this question because every day is very new for me, every day is very challenging for me.
Is there anything hard about performing?
Nothing. I love performing, I love myself and I love my audience.
Sir, what does Kathak mean to you?
Kathak is the journey of my life. Merisaas Kathakhai(My breathe is Kathak) and I can’t think beyond Kathak.
I love performing, I love myself and I love my audience: Mayur Vaidya
How much do you practice when you get a new part or a piece to perform on stage?
Zero; I just dance and god creates magic. That’s it!
What are those three things that you look forward to before getting on stage?
My audience heart, my strength and the divine energy.
Do you feel that it is important for someone to be passionate about their field, in order to be successful on both – personal as well as professional level?
First of all, you need to realize that you are a human being first and then an artist. So keep calm and don’t let the artist overpower the human in you. Trust yourself and be confident!
Mayur Vaidya interacting with Spectralhues’ Suyash Karangutkar
Sir, what would you be doing if you were not a performer; a Kathak dancer?
I don’t know, frankly. If not a Kathak dancer, I would have been just a normal guy on street – hanging around, having food. I can’t think beyond Kathak; beyond dance. Dance is my life.
What is your message for all the aspiring Kathak dancers?
Create magic, win hearts and show your strength by your art. Be a good and humble artist!
Thank you for interacting with Spectralhues, sir. I am sure this interview will inspire and motivate all dancers. Thank you so much!
(Questionnaire by Sanika Govekar, edited and interviewed by Suyash Karangutkar, and photography by Umang Sampat and Nehal Wadkar.)
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