Master Class

“We will conduct these workshops across various cities,in all dance forms,” she says. Through the classes,Khan’s aim is to keep traditional forms of dance alive among youngsters. “It’s important to experiment,like they are doing in Bollywood. But give them a Radha-Krishna mudra and no one will be able to do it in the traditional style. It’s okay to follow contemporary styles but we need to be in touch with our roots,” says the National Award-winning choreographer.

She talks about the time her Tamma Tamma song lost out to Jumma Chumma “because it had the presence of Big B”. “My dance was better,but they had to give it to Amitabh Bachchan. I’m not scared of Bachchan,he respects me as his teacher,” says Khan. So does Dharamendra,who still greets her with “namaste teacherji”.

“What makes me fearless and confident is my work,my taleem in dance from my guruji,” she says.

Although she started her Saroj Khan Dance School in Chandigarh a few years ago,it could never take off. “The partners duped us and are behind bars now. They also had to sponsor my Broadway show Amrapali and that,too,couldn’t take off,” she says. Nevertheless,she has long-term plans for Danse Gurukool. In the meantime,it’s back to choreographing routines with Madhuri Dixit for the film,Gulaab Gang. “Even after all these years,she is still the best,graceful as ever,” says Khan.

While rhythm is an inborn quality,Khan feels that one can dance at any age. “Somehow I am always excited to work in Punjabi culture as they carry the rhythm naturally. They have an exceptional stamina,which is much needed to master the dancing steps. It will be exciting to work here,” she says.

The workshop starts on May 27 at The Millennium School,Mohali. It is a 30- day workshop,and will go on from 9 am to 2 pm. While a 15-day workshop will cost Rs 5500,for 30 days,it’s Rs 7,500. The participants can learn the basics of salsa,hip-hop,folk dance,classical,Bollywood and country free dance.

“Bollywood is one dance form that encompasses all,” says Khan. The closing ceremony of the workshop will witness a performance by the participants.