Alaya’s quick feet

I don’t think one can burn as many calories via any other workout, as they can with kathak. I would train with my Guruji, Rajendra Chaturvedi, for four hours a day, and he would make me do different [movements], over and over again, until I was depleted. But, I always enjoyed living up to the challenge. For eight months, I diligently trained with him. Then, when the lockdown was imposed, I would watch kathak videos online and practice. I have been fascinated with the style, because my grandmother [Protima Bedi] was a classical Odissi dancer]. I began learning the art without any expectations, but eventually loved the way my body would react and move in accordance to the cues. I have been a weak dancer, and this helped me enhance the skill.

I cannot stress enough on the immense fitness benefits one can reap via kathak. It is a great workout, because, not only does one execute the same movement repeatedly, but also does so at a rapid pace. I also practice pilates and gymnastics. Each form complements the other.