I have been practicing Odissi dance at Nritya Sadhana for practically my whole life. My teacher asked me to attend the Nrutya Sangam in India, a showcase where many forms of Indian dance are performed. Traveling to India and performing in front of such a large audience was such an impactful experience for me. It strengthened my love for dance, and I was inspired by the performances I witnessed.

After the showcase, I was walking to my car with my mom when I encountered a little girl on the street. She stared at me, and I realized it was because I was still wearing my dance costume. She told me I looked beautiful and that she would love to dance. It occurred to me then that this girl was living on the streets, and had never had the chance to pursue her passion. This moment made me realize how many impoverished children are unable to access opportunities because of their circumstances.

Nritya Sadhana started a registered trust in India to help impoverished children and young talent in the field of dance by providing scholarships, training, and performance opportunities in Odissi dance. My goal is to do everything I can to help, from organizing fundraisers to supporting my teachers as they teach impoverished dancers. Every performance or class is a step closer to creating child equity and preserving culture. I am asking for your support to help make dance accessible and impactful for impoverished children who may not have the opportunities to pursue it otherwise.