‘I’m dying to dance in a film’

From auditioning for a reality show to choreographing a song for Aamir Khan in Secret Superstar (2017), Sanya Malhotra is quite multifaceted. But what’s closest to her heart is dancing. Not many know that the actor is a trained ballet dancer. Sanya, who has three projects in her kitty, talks about her passion for dancing:

You were among the top 100 contestants on the TV show Dance India Dance (DID). Did you ever want to become a choreographer?

When I was a kid, I wanted to be a part of a dance reality show. I was fascinated by Boogie Woogie and DID. After completing graduation, I auditioned for DID season 4. It’s surreal because I performed on Muskane Jhuthi Hain from Aamir sir’s film Talaash (2012). I came to Mumbai for another round of audition but didn’t get through. I’m glad I didn’t because post that I decided to move to Mumbai and started auditioning for ad films. The most surreal moment for me was when I was asked to choreograph a song for Aamir sir in Secret Superstar. Life came full circle for me then.

When did you take to ballet?

The fact that I love to dance and love everything associated with it, has never been a secret. I wasn’t a trained dancer but was always attracted to and passionate about dancing. In my third year of college, I decided that I should get some training to improve my techniques. That’s when I joined ballet by Mr Fernando in Delhi. I wouldn’t call myself a ballerina because I’m not in touch with this dance form anymore. But I dance everyday. It’s a part of my life .

What other forms have you learnt?

I love Bollywood dance form. I don’t think I’ve mastered any specific dance form. I basically do whatever I want to when I listen to a song. I’m definitely going to take a sabbatical after a few years and go somewhere to learn tap dancing.

Do want to do a dance based movie at some point?

I’m literally dying to dance in a film. I would be ecstatic and grateful if I get a chance to do so. I hope that something like this comes my way soon.

Which is your favourite era when it comes to dance in Hindi cinema?

The golden era of the ‘60s. There was a major change in music and dance presentation in Indian cinema.

I wish I was born in that era and was a part of the industry back then just to see Helen ji performing live.

Actor Sanya Malhotra is a trained ballet dancer