“I was in an abusive relationship for almost half a decade where my partner controlled everything in my life. It was a lot about my diet and habits because I was expected to be a certain size and type. Even as a child, I would get a lot of unnecessary comments from people about my facial hair and my size. That was one of the main reasons why I was a socially awkward person. Throughout the relationship, I struggled to understand what was going on and later, on how to get out of it. I had no one with me and I was ashamed to talk to my parents about it. When I finally broke up, I started with zumba, with an aim to become fit and confident. Soon, I came across belly dancing classes and enrolled myself. I was always a passionate dancer. At my age, to take the decision to dance wasn’t easy. However, once I joined the class, there was no looking back. I started loving it! The best part was the feeling of empowerment – I had forgotten what that felt like. The studio was the only space where I could be myself and not be ashamed – not a bit. It helped me accept myself and embrace my body. I became more confident and I was in a better space – mentally and physically. Belly dance as an artform is welcoming and accommodating. Irrespective of your size, race, colour or gender, you can be a belly dancer. Belly dancing has helped me put together all the broken pieces of my life and today, I’m full and happy again. I’ve taken some decisions that I’m proud of, which wouldn’t have happened if not for the mental peace belly dancing gave me. I’m in a happy marriage. I train students in Hyderabad who come from different backgrounds and age groups to learn something new and exciting. Some of them have a similar history like me – abused, bullied and depressed. Having gone through it all, I make sure I provide a safe and welcoming space to each one of them. I want to be a pillar of strength in their lives and help them embrace themselves. If you don’t love and believe in yourself, nobody will.”

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