Mumbai: As one of the pioneers who brought dance reality television into Indian homes with Boogie Woogie, Jaaved Jaaferi continues to remain a respected voice in the world of dance and entertainment. Returning to the judging panel of India’s Best Dancer, the veteran performer reflects on the evolution of dance, the essence of “India Wala Dance,” and what truly makes a great performer.
Q. You’ve been a pioneer in bringing dance to Indian television. As you return to the judging panel on India’s Best Dancer, how do you see the evolution of dance talent and performance styles over the years?
Jaaved Jaaferi:
My journey with Boogie Woogie was special. It wasn’t just India’s first dance show, but also one of the earliest dance reality formats globally. Over the years, it has been wonderful to see how these platforms have evolved and given dancers incredible exposure. With the internet, the world has become much smaller and dancers today are constantly learning from one another.
The standards have definitely grown. There’s better sync, greater awareness, and a beautiful fusion of styles. While we are still growing in certain classical international forms like ballet or jazz, in freestyle and fusion we are very much on par with global standards. It’s exciting to see hip-hop, contemporary, and Indian dance forms blending together to create something truly unique.
Q. This season celebrates ‘India Wala Dance’ and the soul of Bollywood. What does that idea mean to you?
Jaaved Jaaferi:
Bollywood itself is a beautiful amalgamation of styles. It brings together Indian folk traditions, global influences, contemporary movements, and even martial arts. That’s what makes Bollywood dance so exciting.
But for me, “India Wala Dance” goes beyond technique. It is that raw, unfiltered joy — like a farmer dancing freely in the fields, simply moving to the rhythm. It’s about feeling the music, not just performing it.
We’ve had icons like Rajesh Khanna, Mithun Chakraborty, Shammi Kapoor, and Jeetendra, each with their own unique style that audiences instantly connected with. That’s what Bollywood dance has always represented — accessibility, expression, and celebration.
Q. You’re known for your sharp eye and unique perspective. As a judge, what qualities do you look for in a dancer beyond technique?
Jaaved Jaaferi:
Beyond technique, I always look at how the music has been translated into choreography. Then comes expression — not just facial expressions, but how the entire body expresses emotion.
Whether it is love, compassion, anger, fear, or determination, the body should be able to communicate those feelings to the audience. Expression goes right down to the fingertips and toes — how every part reacts to the music.
Timing is extremely important too. But overall, if your performance can emotionally connect with the audience, touch their senses, and hold their attention, then you’ve truly succeeded as a dancer. That is what I primarily look for.
Q. Having inspired generations of performers, what advice would you give to young dancers hoping to make a mark on a platform like India’s Best Dancer?
Jaaved Jaaferi:
I’m not really someone who gives big advice, because ultimately you should follow your heart. But certain basics always remain important — hard work, perseverance, and constantly pushing yourself.
Every week, you should aim to become better than you were the previous week. Whether it’s jumping one inch higher, extending your leg further, improving flexibility, or expressing yourself better, growth matters.
Most importantly, you have to be honest with yourself. If you are not, you may not notice it immediately, but eventually your teacher and the audience will. Keep pushing yourself and genuinely love what you do.
Let the rhythm guide you wherever it takes you, and give it your absolute best. Don’t focus on competing with others — compete with yourself.
