Rhythm India Enthralls All Ages

It was a packed auditorium at the Old Stafford Civic Center in Sugarland Texas last weekend for a spectacular Just Dance 2011 Bollywood performance by Rhythm India. It was quite a heart warming experience to watch all age groups performing with just one passion and that was Dance. An electrifying display of Bollywood dance and music seemed to satisfy all the Bollywood fans but what stole everyone’s heart was the amazing student teacher interaction. Rhythm India founder Arzan Gonda brought out the best from all her students.

“The goal of this show, hosted each year, is to give the Rhythm India dancers, who have worked hard all year long, an opportunity to perform in a professional setting with high class production along with beautiful costumes, lighting, and sound,” says Arzan.

Dance items included semi-classical pieces, remixes, slow medleys, and a skit called “Bollywood: Then and Now.” The evening was more than just a dance recital, it was a exuberant display of the hard work of the students of Rhythm India.

Each student was so dear to Arzan (the guru) as she felt privileged to be able to create wonderful memories for each of the participants, hoping they will carry it with them for the rest of their lives. The love for their teacher was very evident and there was every reason as Arzan brought in so much positive energy that helped each student develop their talents.

It was exciting to capture the thrill backstage and Arzan informed that it takes several months of preparation to bring such a show live. Since 2004, Rhythm India has taught hundreds of children and adults the art of Bollywood dance in the Greater Houston Area with the idea to promote Indo-American culture and bollywood dance. Arzan Gonda is an accomplished Bharata Natyam dancer from Mumbai India. She started her training in Bharata Natyam at Nateshwar Nritya Kala Mandir at the age of five. Later under the guidance of her beloved Guru Smt. Chhaya Khanvate she completed her Arangetram at the tender age of eleven. Arzan is a recipient of many awards and proud host of several successful Bollywood shows. She was also awarded the All-India Sharda Sangeet Vidyalaya Award from the Indian Minister of Cultural Affairs in 1995.

Rhythm India’s recent achievement is their half time performance at a Rockets game. Once again the team is all set to rock the grounds of Toyota Center on April 13, 2011.

Gonda is no stranger to Houstonians what sets her apart is her overwhelming passion for dance and a loving heart. She clearly proves the notion that an artist never stops learning and her humble persona expands her success. A genuine success story with miles to go.

Photos by: Photography by Navin