Ranjana Gauhar's is a well known name in the field of Indian Classical dance. One of the leading exponents of Odissi, she has experimented with various folk styles like chhau and has successfully blended them with classical forms of dance. Apart from Oddissi, Ranjana has also undergone extensive training in Kathak and Manipuri, and has made four documentary films for Doordarshan. An excerpt from an online chat with this multi-talented personality.

When did you begin dancing?

I can say I started very early, in fact perhaps even before I was born. My mother still complains of what a hard time I gave her in the womb!

How did you develop an interest in Odissi and Chhau and at what age did you begin professional dance?

I discovered Odissi at the age of 16 and after searching for two years I found a teacher who could teach me the art form.

Is classical dance a paying career?

Classical dance is an activity which demands a lot of dedication and devotion. How much it pays depends entirely on an individual's efforts.

My daughter is three years old, can she start learning dance?

Just let your daughter experience the world first. I would not suggest you to start training her so early.

I am 25 years old and have never taken any training in dance. Can I begin now?

Yes, you can surely start now, it's never too late. Age is no bar in making a beginning in dance.

What has been your experience in experimenting with fusion dance?

My experience has been very fruitful and very satisfying. All my experiments have added a new dimension to my art.

What is Chhau dance all about?

Chhau dance originated in Orissa. It takes a lot of inspiration from rural life and has an an input of martial art as well. It has an extremely powerful body - language and can imitate any animal walk or activities from daily chores.

What are the career openings after learning dance?

One can take up teaching, performing, research, writing and a lot more.

Do you practice dance everyday?

My work area has widened greatly now, so I am not able to put in as much as I used to do earlier. But I can honestly say that I have danced eight hours a day for almost 10 years!

Dance is generally considered a prerogative of women. How lucrative is it for a man to take up dance as a profession?

There are lot of opportunities these days. If you are good, you will certainly make a name for yourself!

When did you take up making documentary films?

I started making documentary films around five to six years back. My focus is always dance and music and my subjects revolve around Indian mythology. My sole inspiration for making films was to reach beyond the live audience of a show.

Where is your institute and what are your charges for teaching dance?

My institute is in Jungpura Extension and my charges are commitment and loyalty from the students.