YOUTH VOICES - REYA LAKHANI

INTERVIEW WITH REYA LAKHANI
Reya started studying kathak at 7 and has been dancing for over 11 years. On August 3, 2024 Reya and fellow Chitresh Das Youth Company graduates Heeya Das and Sanjana Rao, performed their Youth Company Graduating Showcase “Jagriti” under the guidance of their Guruji Charlotte Moraga and accompanied by incredible musicians Ben Kunin on sarod, Saneyee Purandare Bhattacharjee on vocal, and Nilan Chaudhuri on tabla. Reya is now a freshman Santa Clara University. This interview is to learn more about Reya’s journey and perspective on being part of the legacy of Pandit Chitresh Das.

Q. What do you want people to know about your kathak journey?

REYA: I started learning Kathak at the age of 7 when my mother wanted me to get involved in some form of dance. When a family friend signed up for Kathak classes, my mom seized the opportunity to introduce me to the dance form. Although I was hesitant, I eventually agreed to try a class. Initially, I was not completely interested, but something kept drawing me back for a second class, then a third, and then a fourth. Over the years, I found myself slowly drawn to the dance form and it eventually became the backbone of my lifestyle. Kathak has shaped me in ways beyond the dance floor. I will always carry the life lessons that I have learned through dance with me and try to incorporate them into all that I do. More than anything, I am deeply grateful for the strong community and friendships that I have been fortunate enough to build along the way. Overall, dance slowly developed into a passion and lifestyle for me over the years, and I cannot imagine my life without it. 

Q. What was it like working with Charlotte Didi to prepare for your graduating showcase?

REYA: I feel incredibly fortunate that I had the opportunity to work so closely with Charlotte Didi. She is an amazing teacher and mentor, and always pushes you to do your best. She is someone who has a fierce belief in each one of her students and wants them to reach their fullest potential. Beyond her exceptional dance and creative expertise, I cherish the life lessons she shares. One that has stayed with me was after a particularly exhausting class when she reminded us of the importance of competing only with ourselves. She explained that it is pointless to try to be the best at something, because no matter what, there will always be someone better or worse than you. What is important is to try to be better than yourself from last month or last year. I try my best to incorporate this mindset into all aspects of my life. 

Q. What did you learn most from the preparation process and the performance?

REYA: Although the preparation process did seem daunting at first, it was truly one of the most gratifying experiences I’ve had. The months leading up to the performance were spent fully immersed in dance. Even when I was not physically dancing, all I could think about was dance. Even though the preparation process was very challenging, it was also extremely rewarding. It felt amazing to be able to share my passion with my loved ones on the stage. I vividly remember waiting for the lights to turn up before my first piece - it all felt so surreal. I am so extremely grateful for this opportunity, the invaluable lessons I have learned, and the memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I also feel incredibly lucky that I had my two amazing guru sisters by my side throughout the journey. They were my support system and I would not have been able to do this without them. 

Q. How does it feel to be carrying on the tradition of Pandit Chitresh Das?

Although I only had the opportunity to meet Dadaji about two or three times, those memories will stay ingrained in me forever. I will always remember his commanding presence and remarkable energy. I remember one Sunday he had all the students and parents gather in one studio, and made us all perform the “I won’t give” section of Kaliya Daman countless times until he approved of it. I had only been dancing for a few months at that point, and I remember being terrified of dancing in front of him, but also so in awe of his presence as he walked across the room. Watching videos of his performances will always continue to inspire me. I will forever remain awestruck by his fierce energy, powerful footwork, and intricate expressions. It always feels like there is so much more to learn from him. I feel deeply grateful to be a part of CDI, and I hope that he would be proud of us today. 

Q. What is something that you have discovered through dance that you would like to share?

REYA: Each person has their own unique journey, and it is important to not compare yourself to others. What is important is to put your best foot forward in anything that you set out to do, and to persevere through any obstacles and challenges. One lesson that Kathak has reinforced for me is the power of confidence. Confidence is very crucial and can make or break your performance. It does not just affect how you feel, but also how the audience perceives you. Even if you doubt yourself in the moment, if you carry yourself with confidence, the belief will eventually feel real. Kathak has also taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance. If you believe in yourself, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. 

Q. Where are you going to university and what are you most excited about learning there?

REYA: I am going to Santa Clara University and am currently pursuing a neuroscience and business double major. I am very excited to see what the next four years have in store for me and hope to continue dancing in some capacity whenever I can find time :) 

Q. What is one thing about learning kathak that you think people should know?

REYA: Of course, Kathak is a physically demanding art form, but for me, it also became a source of mental wellness. Kathak became an outlet to de-stress, especially during the intensity of college applications. Being a Kathak student means that you will learn much more than just how to dance. The art form is very rich in history and math, which is so interesting and enriching to learn about. It also teaches you invaluable life skills that extend beyond the dance floor, such as how to present yourself to an audience and think on your feet.  

Q. If you were to send a message of advice to your 10 year old self, what would you tell her?

REYA: Be confident! It is so important to step out of your comfort zone and believe in yourself. I think Kathak has played a huge role in helping me grow into a more confident person, and I hope 10-year-old me would have been proud to see where I am today. 

Find out more about our Youth Company program on our website or email us to find out more at info@chitreshdasinstitute.org. Photo of Reya Lakhani by Lydia Daniller