The dance of life

MADHURI DIXIT-NENE RETRACES HER STEPS TO RECALL HER ICONIC DANCES AND MORE… WITH JITESH PILLAAI

- JITESH PILLAAI

Rhythm is her hallmark. In every phase of her career and life, Madhuri Dixit-Nene has waltzed to her own beat. She’s just celebrated her 53rd birthday. And just like her dazzling smile, her charisma is timeless. Her talent is in perpetual pursuit of newer platforms of expression. The lockdown, in fact, has helped her tap new reserves. Organised by her academy, Dance With Madhuri (DWM), she recently hosted an online dance festival to help people beat the blues and learn new dance forms. She cut her first single Candle, where she sings of hope and happiness. The virtual auditions of her dance show, Dance Deewane, have kicked off from home… For Madhuri Dixit Nene the show never stops. Excerpts from an intimate conversation with the diva…

WHAT’S YOUR ROUTINE DURING LOCKDOWN?

Initially, it was hard to get into a routine. You try to understand the new situation from every angle. The harm the virus has caused, the economy being flattened, lives disrupted… Kids have also got onto virtual learning. It’s not a bad thing but the kids (referring to sons Arin and Ryan) suddenly have to plan everything for themselves. But I’m proud of them. Initially, it was hard for me too. We don’t know how long it will go on. So I started my riyaz. I practise singing with my mother in the evening. We’re trying to keep ourselves occupied doing something constructive. On the brighter side, you have more time with your family now. Earlier, one often complained about not being able to do so many things. (Smiles) After a long time, I read a book - Born A Crime (by Trevor Noah).

YOU HAVE A TALENT FOR SINGING AS WELL…