That`s all folks!

Kharghar resident folk dancer Debarchana Duarah has performed at several big events at this young age

Thirteen-year-old Debarchana Duarah has a special liking for Indian traditional folk dances. At this young age, she has not only trained in more than four different folk dances but also has an opinion on how these dance forms can be revived. Debarchana talks to Cityplus about these plans, her ambitions and her life.

I’ve got what it takes
I joined dance classes at a very tender age and my mother has been guiding me throughout. I believe in my abilities. I have been dedicatedly working to achieve my goals in the field of dance since the age of six. It’s is this dedication that has helped me grow and develop self-confidence in order to overcome obstacles. I believe if anyone has the confidence to face challenges, devotion to the almighty and to the parents, he or she can achieve anything.

Let’s talk folk
It’s due to my affinity towards Indian culture that I am learning traditional dances of various states. It’s a source of immense pleasure for me. Of course my parents helped inculcate the interest in me.
I have learnt Goan traditional dance, Maharashtrian Lavani dance, Naga Bamboo dance and some other dances of North East India including Bihu. I also have a strong liking for western and Bollywood dances.
Indian folk dances are very attractive. If properly promoted, a lot more people will appreciate them, especially the new generation. If beautifully presented, I believe, it will be able the draw the attention of the whole world. But the conservative and orthodox attitude of a few people seems to be the biggest hindrances and we have lost lots of our folk culture because of that.
I love and respect Indian folk culture and I dream of promoting it throughout the world.

Performance perfect
I have performed at several events. Intercontinental Business Summit (2010), National Tourism conference of Sahara Star and Srihatta Sammelan are a few of prominent events where I have performed. I was really surprised when I got the invitation to perform at the Intercontinental Business Summit. I performed a few traditional dances wearing traditional dresses. It was an amazing experience and a one of biggest achievements of my life. 
Nowadays, people recognise me for my performances and I am receiving several invitations. I have also been regularly performing for Srimoyee Mahila Samitee (Kharghar) functions and the annual Bihu celebration at Mumbai.
I have also participated in a few fashion shows, including the recently organised Musical Threads of North East at Meghalaya House. Moreover, I have also danced in a video film named Hridayor Enajori, produced by Sagar Sangam Creations of Mumbai.

In my spare time...
Apart from dancing, I like designing clothes, arts and crafts. However, I always maintain a balance between my cultural and co-curricular activities. My parents have helped me manage my time.

My inspiration
My parents are my biggest source of inspiration. They are my friends, philosophers and guides. When I spending time with them, I get rejuvenated. It helps me give much more attention to my work. I love them a lot.

--Pranab Jyoti Bhuyan