Meet Priyanka Chaudhry | BollyBeatsFitness Creator & Neurologist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Priyanka Chaudhry and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Priyanka, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
So, after having two kids, I was looking for a fun way to lose weight. As I am also a Neurologist, I know the importance of excercise goes beyond just fitness. It also improves mood, mental health and overall provides a feeling of wellbeing. And what better way than dancing to your favorite music, right? I checked out a bunch of fitness classes around the DFW area, but noticed there weren’t many options with Bollywood music. Some Zumba instructors would throw in one Bollywood song, and it always got me so hyped! I thought, why not create an entire class centered around our favorite Bollywood tunes?

That’s how the idea for Bollybeatsfitness was born. I got my Zumba certification to give it a shot at gyms, but when I approached some big fitness chains, they told me I didn’t have enough experience. It was a little discouraging, but instead of giving up, I decided to rent a space and invite a few neighbors. Luckily, with the support of the people around me and divine grace, the whole thing took off!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Bollybeatsfitness is so much more than just a fitness class—it’s a community of people who share a love for Bollywood music and energy. It’s a place where like-minded folks come together, no judgment, to dance, laugh, and just enjoy the vibe. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or someone who’s never danced before, the class is for everyone. It’s all about having fun, feeling alive, and just being happy in the moment.

The journey wasn’t always easy, though. There were times when I had only one or two people show up for a class, and honestly, that was tough. But what kept me going was consistency. I told myself, no matter how many showed up, I was going to keep showing up, too. Even during the pandemic, when everything else was uncertain, I didn’t let that stop me. I kept offering free Facebook Live and Zoom sessions to stay connected with the community. It was worth it because I knew I was still reaching people and giving them a space to move and feel good.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that consistency and passion will get you through the tough times. And the more you show up for others, the more they’ll show up for you. What I want the world to know is that Bollybeatsfitness is all about community, connection, and making fitness something that’s fun and accessible to everyone. It’s a place where we’re all in it together, no matter our backgrounds or experience level.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Thats a fun one. Obviously, their Sundays will be booked for Bollybeatsfitness class, I will take them to Klyde Warren Park—it’s a beautiful urban park right in the heart of downtown with food trucks, green spaces, and a lively vibe. It’s a great place to stroll around, grab some tacos from the food trucks, and maybe catch a free outdoor concert or event. Another nearby spot is, Dallas Museum of Art or the Nasher Sculpture Center in the Arts District—both are incredible spots to see world-class art. I am also a space buff, so I would hang out at Perot museum as well. Dallas Arboretum would be another cool plaCe depending upon the Dallas heat. My favorite restaurants are Mexican Sugar, Trufire Southlake and Urban Tadka for some amazing Indian food

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d definitely give a shoutout to the whole community that’s been behind Bollybeatsfitness. It’s really a people’s class, and honestly, everyone who’s supported along the way deserves some credit. Even if someone showed up for just one class, that support meant the world to me—it was like a boost for my journey.

I also have to thank my family!! My husband who supported me along the way, and stood by my side every weekend taking care of kids. My kids never complained; in fact, they were always excited to see me teaching fitness! That meant a lot to me.

A big shoutout goes to my co-instructors Bala, as well as Dia and Lisa—these three helped me build such a strong team and a welcoming community. And, of course, I can’t forget the inspiration I got from attending Zumba classes all around DFW. Seeing instructors who could smile and stay high energy the whole class really pushed me to keep going and bring that same vibe to my own classes.