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. As a child, Puja was captivated by the idea of using her body to convey emotions and stories, and it was this fascination that pushed her to explore a variety of dance styles over the years.
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. Her role as a choreographer allowed her to experiment with different styles and genres, blending classical elements with contemporary forms. This period in her life was instrumental in shaping her identity as a dancer and a leader in the dance community.
Being a lead dancer required Puja to perfect her performance abilities, while choreographing for her peers helped her refine her eye for movement and creativity. It was during this time that Puja first realized her passion for teaching dance. Watching her fellow dancers bring her choreographed pieces to life ignited a sense of fulfillment that came from sharing her knowledge and helping others succeed. This realization pushed her to further her education and pursue a career as a professional **dance instructor**.
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. Her desire to continually evolve as both a dancer and teacher led her to explore various forms of dance. 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. She learned to appreciate the nuances of different styles and how they could complement one another, allowing her to develop her own unique teaching methodology.
At Padatik, she became part of a collaborative community of dancers and choreographers, which enriched her learning experience. The training and exposure she received at this institute not only helped her strengthen her core skills but also expanded her horizons as a performer and teacher. After completing her training at Padatik, Puja began her teaching journey with renewed vigor and a determination to pass on the knowledge she had acquired to her students.
Specializing 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. Hip hop, with its energetic and dynamic movements, provided Puja with a fresh and exciting challenge. At Step n Flow, she trained rigorously in the fundamentals of hip hop and immersed herself in its culture, which has its roots in street dance and urban expression. Her time at the institute allowed her to master a range of techniques, including popping, locking, and breaking. Hip hop’s unique blend of creativity, individuality, and rhythm resonated with Puja, and she soon specialized in this style, making it one of the key genres she teaches at Twist N Turns today.
The journey from classical Bharatnatyam to modern hip hop showcases Puja’s versatility as a dancer and her willingness to constantly evolve. While hip hop may seem like a stark contrast to Bharatnatyam, Puja found ways to blend elements of both styles, creating a teaching approach that is both dynamic and culturally rich. Her students at Twist N Turns benefit from this fusion of classical precision and contemporary energy, which makes her classes engaging and well-rounded.
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. Over the years, Puja has guided numerous students toward achieving their dance goals, whether they are preparing for performances, honing their technique, or simply dancing for the love of it.
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. These events are a highlight for both the students and Puja, as they allow her to witness her students’ growth and talent come to life. The studio’s commitment to fostering a supportive and creative environment aligns perfectly with Puja’s teaching style, and her students often credit her for inspiring them to pursue dance with passion and dedication.
Choreographing for Indian Weddings: Bringing Joy to Celebrations
In addition to her work at Twist N Turns, Puja has had the opportunity to choreograph for Indian weddings, a role that has added yet another dimension to her career. Wedding choreography is a specialized skill that requires a deep understanding of traditional and modern dance forms, as well as the ability to create memorable and joyful routines that fit the celebratory nature of the occasion. Puja’s experience in both classical and contemporary dance has made her well-suited for this role, and she has successfully created dance sequences for numerous wedding events.
Indian weddings, known for their grandeur and cultural significance, often feature elaborate dance performances by the bridal party and family members. Puja’s ability to choreograph these performances, blending tradition with modern flair, has made her a sought-after choreographer for such occasions. Her involvement in wedding choreography has allowed her to explore another side of dance—one that focuses on bringing people together in celebration and joy.
A Respected Mentor and Instructor
Puja’s journey as a **dance instructor** has been one of continuous learning, growth, and creativity. Over the years, she has earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues, students, and the wider dance community. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her ability to inspire and guide her students, has made her an invaluable asset to Twist N Turns.
As a mentor, Puja places a strong emphasis on the holistic development of her students. She believes that dance is not just about mastering steps but about building confidence, fostering creativity, and expressing oneself through movement. Her students, ranging from beginners to advanced dancers, appreciate her patience, encouragement, and ability to make dance both challenging and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Puja Saha’s journey from a young girl learning Bharatnatyam to a seasoned **dance instructor** specializing in multiple styles is a testament to her passion, versatility, and commitment to dance. Her ability to seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary dance forms has made her a standout instructor at Twist N Turns, where she continues to inspire the next generation of dancers. Whether she is teaching hip hop, choreographing for a wedding, or preparing students for a performance, Puja approaches every aspect of her career with dedication and enthusiasm. Her impact on the dance community is profound, and she remains a beloved and respected figure among her students and colleagues.
