EXCL! Kathak Dancer Ritika Arora Calls Hrithik Roshan Best Dancer In B'wood, Reveals Who Influenced Her

"Dancing is like dreaming with your feet!", said Constanze. These words definitely hold a lot of value for Ritika Arora, a prominent Kathak dancer. Ahead of International Dance Day 2025, Filmibeat got in touch with the talented dancer to know who influenced her. Did Bollywood play a key role in developing her love for Kathak? Who's her favourite dancer in B-town?

Here are excerpts from the fun-filled interview.

When did you develop your love for Kathak? Who played a key role in your fascination with the dance form?

I've always been drawn to dance since I was really young. Growing up, I would watch Bollywood songs and try to mimic the steps in front of the mirror-it was my little world of fun! But when it comes to Kathak, it all started when I first saw Pandit Birju Maharaj ji perform on TV. I was completely mesmerised. I remember thinking, "What kind of dance is this?" It was so graceful, so full of expressions-it just pulled me in. That is when I started digging deeper, researching more about Kathak, and eventually, it inspired me to pursue my Masters in it. For me, Pandit Birju Maharaj ji was not just a performer; he became the spark that lit my passion for this beautiful art form. Now, as a dance teacher here in the UK-where you can find my profile on Superprof and UrbanPro-I feel so proud to carry forward that love.

Which has been the most difficult act to choreograph in your career?

To be honest, choreography itself isn't the hardest part for me-I love creating and bringing stories to life through dance. The real challenge comes when I am teaching someone my choreography. It is not just about the steps; it is about whether the person dancing can reflect the same emotions and feelings I put into it. That's the biggest hurdle I face. When I choreograph a piece, I pour my heart into it, and when I teach-whether it's my students here in the UK or anywhere else-I want them to connect with that emotion and show it in their movements. Sometimes, getting that depth across to someone else can be tough, but it's also what makes teaching and choreographing so rewarding.

How do you balance performing and teaching dance?

Balancing performing and teaching requires careful time management and organization. I prioritize scheduling and dedicate specific time slots for each activity. I also leverage technology, using online platforms for teaching and communication, which allows for flexibility. Ultimately, I see both performing and teaching as complementary. Teaching informs my performance by deepening my understanding of technique, while performing enriches my teaching by providing practical experience and inspiration to share with my students.

Do you think Indian dance forms are under- represented on the world map?

Oh, absolutely-a big yes from me! Indian classical dances like Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and others are so special. They're spiritual at their core, tied to our gods and traditions, and they carry such depth with their culture, costumes, expressions, grace, and music. But sadly, they're underrated globally. These days, people are more into pop or hip-hop styles, and I get it-it's catchy and fun. That's why I've started blending Kathak with pop music in my classes (you can check out my teaching style on Superprof and UrbanPro!). It helps people connect with it more easily. Still, I feel our classical dances deserve so much more recognition on the world stage-they're treasures that not enough people know about.

How do you blend classical and contemporary dance styles in your work?

Integrating Kathak with contemporary dance forms while maintaining its authenticity involves a careful balance of tradition and innovation. Dancers and choreographers preserve the core elements of Kathak, such as intricate footwork, rhythmic patterns, and expressive storytelling, while exploring new choreographic possibilities. This fusion often includes innovative use of space and time, incorporation of modern themes and social issues, and technological integration through multimedia elements. Cross-cultural collaborations and conscious fusion with other dance styles, like ballet or jazz, further expand Kathak's expressive range. The key lies in mastering both Kathak and contemporary techniques, approaching fusion as a research process, and ensuring that the integration enhances rather than dilutes the classical form.

Who, according to yo,u is the best dancer in Bollywood?

I'd say Srideviji was phenomenal - her moves had such charm. And then there's Hrithik Roshan; his precision and style are just on another level. They have always inspired me, both as a dancer and as a teacher here in the UK, where I'm sharing my passion with my students.

You've set some impressive records. What was that experience like, and how did it shape your career?

Achieving Guinness World Records has been a transformative experience, significantly amplifying my confidence and professional credibility within the dance community. This accomplishment validated my capabilities in large-scale choreography and leadership, while simultaneously inspiring me to leverage dance as a powerful tool for positive social impact. It underscored the immense value of collaborative effort and teamwork, reinforcing the belief that collective dedication can achieve extraordinary feats, and opening doors to further opportunities for artistic and community engagement. I worked with the Pankaj and Preeti Dance Academy and achieved a remarkable Guinness World Record for the Largest Bollywood Dance Performance in Amritsar, India. The record-breaking event involved 8,726 students aged between 7 and 18 years, who performed a synchronized dance routine. The performance was not just a dance event but also served as an anti-drug awareness campaign. Amritsar Deputy Commissioner Ravi Bhagat highlighted that the record attempt was designed to spread social awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, which had been devastating many lives in Punjab.

How do you use social media to connect with your audience and share your work?

Social media is a vital tool for connecting with my audience and sharing my work. I use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to post videos of performances, class updates, student testimonials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of my creative process. I also utilize social media for live sessions, Q&As, and interactive content to engage with my followers and build a strong online community.

What advice would you give to aspiring dancers looking to succeed globally?

For aspiring dancers aiming for global success, I would advise:

· Develop strong technical skills: A solid foundation in your chosen dance forms is crucial.

· Embrace versatility: Explore different styles to broaden your artistic range.

· Network and collaborate: Connect with dancers and choreographers worldwide.

· Use social media effectively: Promote your work and build an online presence.

· Be persistent and resilient: The dance world is competitive, so perseverance is key.

· Never stop learning: Continue to grow as an artist by attending workshops, taking classes, and seeking mentorship.

· Believe in yourself: Confidence and passion will shine through in your performance.