My body is part of who I am and I am much more than good looks: Dancer Karishma Chavan
I think the biggest challenge was to convince peers, bosses and clients that I was right for the job. A lot of them judged me on my body type, says dancer and choreographer Karishma Chavan
Dancer and Choreographer Karishma Chavan who was recently seen as judge in Dance Plus 5. She has been a part of many dance reality shows like Nach Baliya, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. She made her acting debut through ABCD.
She has also choreographed the songs in films like, Khoobsurat, Kick, Hasee Toh Phasee, Tumhari Sulu, and Veere Di Wedding.
How has been your journey as a Choreographer?
Tough, long and adventurous but definitely worth it. My career started at the age of 18 and a half. Every step of the way I have experienced utmost happiness as I love what I do from the bottom of my heart. Hence the obstacles and hurdles to never broke me. 16 years later I am exactly where I am supposed to be.
I get to wake up everyday to create, experiment and bring visions alive on stage as well as films. I am blessed. yes I have had setbacks due to people or competitors but I guess that applies to all walks of life.
What were the challenges that you faced? How did you deal with them?
I think the biggest challenge was to convince peers, bosses and clients that I was right for the job. A lot of them judged me on my body type. But I took it in my stride. I took it up as a challenge and eventually proved a lot of people wrong.
In Bollywood, with whom you want to work with or choreograph?
I want to work with anyone who is willing to push themselves enough to surprise everyone but most importantly themselves. Having said that I have had wonderful experiences working with Shah Rukh Khan as well as Akshay Kumar and would definitely love an opportunity to do it again. I also would love to work with Deepika Padukone again and Kangana Ranaut.
Tell us something about your future ventures. What are your plans for this year?
Since last year was my moment of fame with Dance Plus season 5, I was hoping I would get a chance to travel and teach a lot more along with pushing for more films and videos. But that went onto the backseat due to COVID. I have to rekindle that this year with more music videos and films.
I am also looking forward to a dream project which is my own clothing brand for plus size fashion. Fingers crossed that should take off this year.
Have you thought of any other career option other than choreography if yes then what?
I consider myself a jack of all trades, and master of none. Hence I believe I can multi task really well. Choreography will never leave my side. I would like to direct a film someday and also have a successful clothing brand. And who knows may be 5 years later I would add another feather in my hat.
What message would you want to give to aspiring dancers?
Be very patient along with being persistent. That’s the only way you will get where you want to be. Work hard, train harder and don’t forget to enjoy yourself from time to time.
What message you want to give on body positivity?
I used to be more concerned about my image as a younger girl. Over the years I have learned to love myself and make peace with who I am and what I have to offer as an individual. My body is a part of who I am and I am much more than good looks. I believe in substance. I have faced many hurdles due to the narrow perception of people and their very blinkered opinions on how a dancer should look. Luckily we are breaking those stereotypes and I pray many will follow.
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