Artist, performer and choreographer Rakshita Jain finds solace and purpose in dance and performance.
From starting her dance aged four to experimenting with styles and carving out a space for herself in kathak, Rakshita continues to evolve everyday as an artist, creating immersive experiences laden with passion.
Also building her fusion dancewear and costume rentals brand Movastra, Rakshita’s love for dance extends beyond movement as she shapes an empowering space for skilled dancers to pursue their dreams without financial constraints.
To mark International Dance Day, we speak to Rakshita about her dance journey, how she sustains a creative profession, her future goals and what dance means to her.
“Even if I end up with nobody in my life, I know dance will be my only saviour till my last breath.”
How long has dancing been a part of your life? Where did your journey begin in dance?
My dance journey began at the age of four, performing in temples while my mother sang live beside me. What started as a childhood expression slowly grew into a deeper calling.
Over the years, I explored various western dance forms, only to realize that my truest connection lay in movement itself, and in returning to my roots. Choosing dance as a career felt like both a risk and a blessing.
I went on to pursue my Master’s in Performing Arts in Kathak, graduating with a gold medal and receiving the Gujarat Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (Kal Ke Kalaakar).
Beyond nine years of teaching & performing at numerous prestigious national & international platforms, my journey has been about sharing—from conducting workshops for underprivileged communities to taking this art form across spaces & even to the USA.
I am also privileged to receive intensive training, mentorship, and artistic direction under the legendary Pt. Shri Jagdish Gangani ji and the distinguished Dr. Preeti Damle ji.
As someone trained in a specific dance style, do you still enjoy experimenting with new dance styles? Is there any style or even concept you’d like to try out in the future?
I’m trained in various western dance styles too. Experimenting with them and fusing them together has always fascinated me and pushed me feeling into deriving the possibilities of what they depict when put together. This is something, I believe always makes a creator stand out from the usual.
What are your goals or dreams in terms of your dancing journey?
If I could bring in a change in somebody’s life through my work, by presenting dance concepts relevant & meaningful along with connecting with my viewers and by diving deep into what more does beautiful art form hold. If I could explore and branch out all the possibilities around dance and know about strengths better, I’ll feel I’m going in the right direction.
Another goal is to build a fusion wear rental space that offers uniquely designed costumes while easing the financial burden on dancers. At its core, this initiative also aims to empower skilled women from underserved backgrounds by collaborating with them to bring my designs to life.
Personally, what’s the most rewarding part of performing?
To be able to connect by expressing and have my audience feel the connection that I’m trying to put out through my performance.
What’s an aspect of your dance that remains unnoticed but makes a huge part of the practice?
I think it’s the internal work, the constant negotiation with self-doubt, discipline, and emotional vulnerability. A lot of my practice happens in silence—repetition, reflection, and unlearning. It’s in these quiet, unseen moments that the real growth happens.
What does it take to sustain a career in dance and keep the passion for it alive?
There are phases of uncertainty, both creative and financial, where one has to continue showing up regardless. For me, what keeps the passion alive is returning to why I began. Continuously exploring new dimensions, whether through teaching, collaborating, or interdisciplinary work, also helps me stay engaged and inspired.
What’s one myth about dance and performance that you’d love to break ?
Dancing is only for those who know how to dance and dance well.
Finally, to mark International Dance Day, tell us what dance means to you?
It’s a way to connect with God and a therapy to my soul. It’s my way of living. Even if I end up with nobody in my life, I know dance will be my only saviour till my last breath.
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