To dance is to be human

Throughout history, humans have gathered to dance, finding joy, connection, and healing in these shared moments. There’s something deeply universal about moving together to the rhythm of music, a bond that forms as people sway, twirl, and sync with one another. Unlike many other activities, dance isn’t about competing or being the best; it’s a shared language that speaks to our need for connection. Imagine a gathering where everyone, from young children to elderly grandparents, joins hands and moves in unison. It’s more than just steps—it’s an embrace, a celebration, and an understanding that you’re part of something bigger. That simple act of dancing together, of physical closeness, has a way of melting away stress and anxiety. In a world that often seems set on measuring, judging, and comparing, dance provides a space where we can simply be together.

For some, dance is the ultimate exercise without even feeling like one. I’ve seen people forget the hours pass as they dance, drenched in sweat but beaming with exhilaration. Unlike a structured workout or yoga class where routines might feel repetitive or slow-paced, dance flows with varied movements and intensity. The full-body engagement—turning, stretching, bending, jumping—keeps you constantly moving and lifting your heart rate. And because you’re so immersed in the rhythm and movements, you barely notice how hard your body is working. There’s a magic in how dance fuses strength, balance, and endurance without feeling forced or tedious, making it one of the most satisfying workouts for the body and soul.

There’s an element of play and performance in dance that’s utterly liberating. Dance allows us to step outside our usual selves, embodying new characters, emotions, and even worlds. Watching kids in a dance class, for instance, you’ll notice how they transform—they go from being a bit shy to moving with complete abandon, playing roles that help them express feelings they might not put into words. These moments teach resilience too. Dance isn’t always perfect. You might stumble or forget a step, but that’s part of the journey. Learning to bounce back, adapt, and try again builds a quiet confidence. Performing in front of an audience, whether it’s a small family gathering or a school event, strengthens that confidence even further. There’s something truly empowering in learning that you can get up on stage, be vulnerable, and come away stronger.

For those of us who grew up in Indian households, Bollywood dance offers something even more profound. Growing up in the diaspora or even just learning Hindi through Bollywood lyrics has connected many Indians back to their roots. I remember watching friends practice Bollywood routines, laughing and trying to keep up with the lyrics, gaining confidence in a language that might not be our primary one but still feels deeply familiar. Bollywood dance is a cultural connector, a way for Indians to feel rooted in their heritage. Through the vibrant music, energetic movements, and storytelling that Bollywood is known for, we connect with our culture. It’s more than dance; it’s language, tradition, and identity wrapped into a joyful, colorful package.

In all its forms, dance reminds us of our shared humanity. Whether you’re dancing alone in your living room, in a ballroom, or at a wedding, the joy, the laughter, the release—it all transcends words. Dance has a way of lifting us, of grounding us, of bringing us together. It’s a shared rhythm, a story, a connection that reminds us we are not alone. Through dance, we express, we connect, we heal, and we celebrate the pure joy of movement, life, and togetherness.