Amit Rajput and Sakshi Sushant Shet Kurtarkar are redefining the art of dance in Goa and beyond. Hailing from Ponda, Goa, this dynamic duo has established themselves as passionate dancers, choreographers, and performing artists, making an indelible mark in the Indian dance industry. Their dedication to the craft has not only won them prestigious titles but also opened doors to some of the biggest platforms in entertainment.
A Trailblazing Journey in Dance
Amit and Sakshi’s journey into dance began as a passion, eventually transforming into a career filled with remarkable achievements. Their most notable accomplishment came when they became the first and only Goans to win the popular TV reality show India Banega Manch. Their success story, however, does not stop there.
They were semi-finalists on India’s Got Talent Season 5 and have participated in several other reality shows, including Dance Plus Season 2 and High Fever – Dance Ka Naya Tevar. Their talent and dedication have also led them to the world of choreography, where they have worked on renowned dance reality shows like Dance India Dance and Super Dancer.
Influences and Artistic Development
Their artistic approach has been shaped by some of the finest dancers in the world. Amit and Sakshi draw inspiration from international dance icons known for their discipline and innovation. Their deep respect for structured training and continuous learning is evident in their performances and teaching methods.
Amit’s foundation in classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam, provided him with the technical finesse that he later expanded by mastering Bollywood, freestyle, and Latin dance forms such as Salsa and Bachata. Their rigorous training includes workshops with global dance champions like Oliver Marcelo Pineda (10-time World Salsa Champion), Karen & Ricardo (9-time World Champions), and Andrea & Silvia (World Bachata Champions). These experiences have enriched their skills and influenced their distinctive style.
Achievements in Competitions and Commercial Projects
Over the years, Amit and Sakshi have left an impressive footprint in national and international dance circuits. Some of their most significant achievements include:
- Winner of India Banega Manch (Season 1) on Colors Channel.
- Semi-finalists on India’s Got Talent (Season 5).
- Top 6 in Dance Plus (Season 2).
- Top 9 in High Fever – Dance Ka Naya Tevar.
- Grand Finalist in Uggram Ujjwalam on South Manorama Channel.
- All Asia Latin Professional Champion of Champions (2016-17).
- Runner-up at the World Salsa Championship in Hong Kong (2012).
- Multiple wins in All India and All Asia Bachata & Salsa Pro Couple Competitions.
Beyond competitions, they have contributed significantly to Bollywood and commercial dance projects. They choreographed Hrithik Roshan in Kaabil under Ahmed Khan’s direction, worked with Remo D’Souza and Suraj Pancholi in Time to Dance, and designed dance sequences for Anushka Sharma’s television commercial. Their work on reality shows like Dance India Dance and Super Dancer further cemented their place as leading choreographers.
The Creative Process Behind Choreography
For Amit and Sakshi, choreography is more than just movement—it is a storytelling experience. Every performance starts with understanding the theme, music, and emotions behind the piece. Their approach integrates technical excellence with expressive storytelling, ensuring their routines captivate audiences. Whether they are choreographing for films, reality shows, weddings, or corporate events, they focus on precision, creativity, and innovation.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated
While their journey has been filled with accolades, it has not been without challenges. Early on, balancing academic commitments with dance training was a hurdle. However, their discipline and passion for the art helped them navigate this phase with ease. Unlike many artists, Amit and Sakshi have not faced major professional setbacks, a testament to their consistent dedication and ability to adapt.
Their ability to remain stress-free before performances stems from a lifelong love for the stage. To maintain a clear and creative mindset, they practice meditation, allowing them to stay focused and deliver mesmerizing performances.
Vision for the Future
Amit and Sakshi are determined to take Goan dance talent to new heights. Over the next five years, their primary goal is to establish Goa’s biggest dance academy. This institution will serve as a platform for young, aspiring dancers to receive world-class training and mentorship. They hope to nurture students who will go on to compete in national and international dance reality shows, bringing more accolades home to Goa.
Upcoming Projects and Collaborations
Their journey is far from over, with exciting projects lined up:
- Dance Hatke Celebrity Event: Successfully completed six seasons, with Season 7 on the horizon.
- Bollywood Dabangg: A platform for Goan students to showcase their talent.
- Dance Ka Maha Yudh: A national solo dance competition they are collaborating with to support young talent.
- Corporate & Wedding Performances: Continuing to choreograph and perform for large-scale events.
Advice for Aspiring Dancers
Amit and Sakshi believe that success in dance requires a combination of passion, strategy, and resilience. Their advice to upcoming dancers includes:
- Train Smart, Not Just Hard – Focus on technique, cross-training, and injury prevention.
- Network and Stay Visible – Attend industry workshops, connect with professionals, and utilize social media.
- Develop a Unique Style – Learn from others but strive to create your own artistic identity.
- Be Open to Feedback – Constructive criticism is a tool for growth; embrace it.
- Understand the Business Side – Learn about contracts, branding, and financial management to sustain a long-term career.
The Future of Dance and Social Media
Digital platforms have revolutionized dance, providing global exposure and career opportunities. Amit and Sakshi acknowledge the power of social media in transforming dance careers, allowing artists to monetize their skills, collaborate internationally, and explore new creative mediums. However, they emphasize the importance of authenticity and mindful content creation to maintain artistic integrity.
Conclusion
Amit Rajput and Sakshi Sushant Shet Kurtarkar are more than just dancers—they are storytellers, mentors, and innovators in the world of performing arts. Their journey from passionate performers to reality show champions and Bollywood choreographers is an inspiration to dancers everywhere. As they continue to break barriers and push creative limits, their legacy will undoubtedly influence generations of aspiring artists, proving that with discipline, creativity, and dedication, the stage is limitless.
