Dance Instructor Spotlight: Puja Saha
A Journey of Dedication and Excellence
Puja Saha, a name that resonates deeply in the world of dance, has spent over 20 years cultivating her art and refining her teaching methodologies. As a versatile and dedicated dance instructor at Twist N Turns, one of Kolkata’s leading dance studios, Puja has built a reputation for her expertise in a wide range of dance forms, including Bollywood, Bharatnatyam, hip hop, semi-classical, and classical styles. Her passion for dance is matched only by her commitment to her students, whom she empowers to develop their skills, confidence, and self-expression.
Puja’s journey in dance began at the age of 8 when she enrolled in a Bharatnatyam training academy. This early exposure to a classical art form laid a solid foundation for her future in dance. From an early age, Puja displayed remarkable discipline, dedication, and an innate talent for movement. The rigors of Bharatnatyam, known for its intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures, and deep cultural significance, helped her develop a strong understanding of rhythm, grace, and the storytelling potential of dance.
College Days: The Lead Dancer and Choreographer
As Puja grew older, her love for dance continued to flourish. During her college years, she took on the roles of lead dancer and choreographer, gaining recognition for her creative choreography and technical skills. College provided Puja with a platform to not only perform but also lead and mentor her peers, helping her develop her ability to teach and inspire others.
Formal Training: A Commitment to Growth
After completing her formal education, Puja sought to deepen her understanding of dance by pursuing a choreography training course. She joined Padatik, a well-known performing arts institution in Kolkata, to further hone her skills and gain additional teaching credentials. At Padatik, Puja was exposed to a diverse range of dance forms, and this diversity of training broadened her approach to teaching.
Specialising in Hip Hop: The Step n Flow Experience
Puja’s love for dance led her to continue expanding her repertoire, and it was at Step n Flow Institute that she discovered her passion for hip hop. At Step n Flow, she trained rigorously in the fundamentals of hip hop and immersed herself in its culture. Her time at the institute allowed her to master a range of techniques, including popping, locking, and breaking.
Teaching at Twist N Turns: Shaping the Next Generation
As a dance instructor at Twist N Turns, Puja is known for her ability to connect with students of all ages and skill levels. Her teaching philosophy revolves around nurturing each student’s unique potential, helping them develop not only technical proficiency but also self-confidence and personal expression.
At Twist N Turns, Puja plays an integral role in the studio’s annual showcases, where students get the opportunity to perform on stage in front of live audiences. She has also choreographed for Indian weddings — a specialized skill requiring mastery of both traditional and modern dance forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dance forms does Puja Saha teach at Twist N Turns?
Puja teaches Bollywood, Bharatnatyam, hip-hop, semi-classical, and classical dance styles. Her versatility across Indian classical and contemporary forms makes her one of the most well-rounded instructors at Twist N Turns Kolkata.
How many years of experience does Puja Saha have?
Puja has spent over 20 years cultivating her art and refining her teaching methodology. She began her Bharatnatyam training at the age of 8, building a rigorous classical foundation before expanding into other styles.
Why is Bharatnatyam training important to Puja’s teaching?
Puja believes her Bharatnatyam foundation — with its intricate footwork, expressive mudras, and deep rhythmic understanding — informs everything she teaches. This classical grounding gives her students superior body awareness, grace, and musical sensitivity regardless of the style they are learning.
What age groups does Puja teach?
Puja works with students across a wide range of ages at Twist N Turns, from young children discovering dance for the first time to adults pursuing classical or Bollywood training.
How can I attend dance classes at Twist N Turns Kolkata?
Call Twist N Turns on 98310 18015 to learn about current batch timings and studio locations, or fill out the online enquiry form to schedule a free trial class.