Q You’ve been a judge off and on for a while...
I get scared to judge even now. But I have understood better how to go about it, and I’m judging much better now compared to earlier. Also, I am in a better space and a better position to be judging, because I’m enjoying the experience. I think our contestants have to have fun and enjoy this journey.
Q You have been in the entertainment industry for many years now. What changes do you note?
Well, earlier I don’t think it was even recognised as an industry. Now that has changed. That’s the foremost change. I’m happy and proud to be part of it.
Q Your Chaiyan Chaiyan number, which you started with, gave you fame and name. What do you feel about it, looking back?
Receiving recognition with my first dance number was amazing, and a wonderful feeling indeed. I had the best dance to perform. I’m so glad I did it!
Q Would you like to be tagged as, ‘Dance Diva or Fitness Diva?
Dance diva? Fitness? Or a fashion diva? Put me in any category — whether dance, fashion or fitness. I just want to be known as The Diva.
Q What is your fitness mantra?
I think everybody has a different approach to fitness. I just tell everybody, “start toh karo (just get started). Start somewhere, or else you may not be able to reach any of your goals. Make it a habit of some sort. Eventually you will reach that goal.
Q What does fitness mean to you?
Fitness is very important to me — I need to wake up every day and motivate myself. It’s not easy. You have to do it irrespective of whatever you are going through. Every day for me should be a day to remember. I don’t like to wake up feeling dull. I should feel Chalo sab karte hai saath mein.
Q Do you still rehearse dance regularly?
I rehearse dancing whenever I get a chance to do it. I love it...it’s a great stress buster. Also, dance is something that I’m good at.
Q The earlier dance styles were different. What new styles have you noted and learned from these participants?
I have learned a lot of dance styles. I didn’t even know these dance styles existed. Now, more girls are participating in the show. Earlier it was predominantly boys — for every 10 boys there were 1 or 2 girls. Now the ratio has changed, and the girls participating have taken the show to the next level.
India’s Best Dancer Season 2 will be on air on Sony Entertainment Television every Saturday and Sunday at 8:00 PM.
