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

Hi Vanditha, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Having trained in Bharathnatyam (Traditional Indian classical dance ) for the last 20years, I wanted to give back to the community. There is never a perfect time- So when i decided to start, my only motivation was to train my students in the right direction. I am very grateful to all my gurus who have been a pillar of support through out my dance education. I felt the need and duty-bound to transfer this art to the next generation with utmost sincerity.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
To me- There is nothing more soulful and beautiful than dancing:) It not just elevates you mentally and spiritually but also a visual treat to your spectators. The joy of bringing happiness in someone is the best feeling for an artiste like me. My dance journey was certainly not easy. I was never a full time artiste as I was trained for 5 years to become a practicing dentist in India but through out my life dance has been an integral part and managed to continue my intensive practice sessions even while doing my dentistry- I should say, these were the most challenging days, as both of them were complex and needed some dedicated time. I remember having to complete my patient appointments in clinic then rush to dance practice session that would almost run till midnight! (Ahhhh! tiring days!) But enjoyed every bit of it. Every day of my life had a message- NEVER GIVE UP!- My brand, Nrithyarpanam Academy of performing Arts strives for just one thing- Dance for your soul!!:)

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Haha! This is interesting coz I don’t really get time off from my dance school so the best place I could show my bestie would be my dance studio!! *wink*- But yes, jokes apart- I love running or walking long trails, so I guess i would like to take her for some hiking or biking, recently I had been to Cedar reserve in Dallas that was surrounded my dense trees- Felt so refreshing and a best place to start a sun-kissed morning! I guess after a tiring hike, there is no harm in cheating :):) I would take her to a best Indian Buffet- There are numerous restaurants around that offer a big fat buffet like Chennai Cafe, India 101. My bestie and me will have loads to talk no matter what! so we will continue to chit chat and end our day with my most favorite delicious Braums Ice cream!– Ah! now that i am talking about it, let me call my bestie to make some plans!!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I will forever be grateful to my parents and gurus. My dance teachers not just taught me dance but trained me for life- follow your passion, failure is just a stepping stone, face challenges! I am sure a lot of us have heard this but how many of us practice and face them in life? I went through each of this with my family by my side. It was initially my mom, dad, brother who walked the steps with me followed by my husband who is an extraordinary support now. Overall, I am very blessed to have grown up in such an artistic house filled with music, dance and poetry! For every dancer- Its critical to keep with the current trend and present conceptual productions that involves hours of practice, stage design, costume design and many more- My In Laws have been with me through this thick and thin giving me vibrant ideas at all times. My shoutout goes to my Gurus, Family and friends. Without their love and encouragement – This journey would have been impossible. Last but not the least- My beautiful 85year old grandmother Padmavati is my inspiration- An iron lady and she still dances and sings!!!

Website: https://nrithyarpanam.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/vandita_mohan?igshid=87yr91c2erk5
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nrithyarpanam/

Image Credits
Vineeth Rakesh