A chat with the Odissi danseuse

Source: Tehelka      Date: January 27, 2007          

What are the values you would like to pass on to your children?
I’d obviously like to give my very best to Sana, my daughter. But at times she may see me screaming at or scolding somebody — it is definitely not something I’d like her to pick up. I want her be a good person, helping people while keeping her own interests in mind.

What makes a good marriage?
Understanding, making sacrifices and fulfilling each other’s expectations. Your take on extramarital affairs? They’re a matter of personal choice. One may find happiness with someone else after they are married — I would say go ahead and be happy.

What do you feel about the younger generation experimenting with sex at an earlier age?
It’s their life and they have to do their own experimentation. They should be careful, stay safe and perhaps wait for the right time.

What role does religion play for you?
A big role. My in-laws are very religious and my profession is also linked with religion. I’m an Odissi dancer, the form which has evolved from the Devdasi pratha of the Jagannath temple so I know about gods and goddesses, but it’s not ritualistic.

What does happiness mean to you?
It’s the way you take it. I might be very happy wearing a light cotton sari but may not enjoy wearing a heavy Rs 16,000 one. People bore a grudge when my husband [Saurav Ganguly] wasn’t playing for India but I am very happy that he has made 10,000 runs. If you want to be happy you can find it in small things, but if you want to be sad then nothing will make you happy.

Who or what do you turn to for solace in times of distress?
My mother, my husband, and now Sana. When I’m upset, spending an hour with her really cheers me up.

What has been your greatest takeaway as a dancer?
Dancing has given me financial independence, fame, and another identity — in fact, everything.

What is your favourite place to think, sing and wonder?
I actually get very little time to think and wonder. The one place I can relax a little is when I’m having a massage.

Your darkest fear, greatest joy?
I don’t have any darkest fear, or any greatest joy.

What truly makes you happy?
I feel truly happy when my husband scores a big innings, when he makes a loving gesture, when my show goes well, when Sanasays something funny or cute. All these little things.