IndiaPost.com - Aaja Nach LA

India Post News Service

SANTA MONICA, CA: With Indian music becoming mainstream people are flocking towards dance classes where they can learn to dance like their favorite stars to catchy Bollywood and Bhangra beats. In Santa Monica, siblings Reshma and Shivani Dhawan run a dance school to teach the latest Indian dance moves. Called Nach La, the school teaches students from age five years onwards. The idea of running their own school came to them during a practice for dance performances.

Their style of dance incorporates Hip-Hop, filmy and traditional Bhangra steps, all in a one-hour high energy up beat class. Not only is it a great way to tune into Indian culture, and make friends, it is also a work out! The girls also have some exciting performance opportunities planned for the near future.

Located at the intersection of Lincoln and Santa Monica Blvd in the city of Santa Monica, Nach La holds dance classes every Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Apart from dance classes the Dhawan sisters also want to do dance programs for charity. Registration for 2008 began early January.

These classes are for all levels and to have fun, build confidence and connect to Indian culture. They are also available for choreographing a dance for your friends or family for a set price for special events. Some such events include Diwali, Independence Day, wedding functions, birthday parties, talent shows or cultural programs.

Arrangements can be made for them to come to your home and teach a dance for you and your group. Reshma, 24, the older of the two studied dance at Ghungroo Dance Academy in the Bay Area for six years. There she took part in countless performances including playing a lead role in the musical "Matches Di Yah Memah".

She then went to the University of California, Santa Barbara where she continued to dance and choreograph for the annual culture show "Visions of India". She has also taught private classes as well as choreographed for Grant Elementary Schools annual Diwali show. Reshma has also learned Jazz, Hip-Hop, and ballet for over four years.

She is beginning Kathak classes to continue to improve her style. Along with her dance classes Reshma works at her family business and at a media company. Shivani, 23, also trained at the Ghungroo Dance Academy for six years.

She later went to the University of Southern California where she competed nationally on the co-ed Bhangra team "Nachdi Jawani" formerly known as "Pind Di Masti". Shivani has also participated in and choreographed the annual USC culture show held at the Orpheum theatre downtown Los Angeles.

Along with Reshma, Shivani has also taught private classes, choreographed for Diwali functions in the area and has also learned Hip-Hop and Jazz as well.