Today, we’d like to introduce you to Meenal Chakradeo.
Meenal, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I come from a middle-class Indian family where academic education was given the utmost importance. Studying hard and landing a stable corporate job was a goal that was ingrained in me from childhood.
While I was at school during the day, dance was another extracurricular activity that I was enrolled in. I excelled academically, and my passion for dance grew alongside my studies. I completed formal training in dance along with my graduation and master’s degrees in India.
But even then, I considered Dance a serious hobby and nothing more. After getting married and moving to the United States, I pursued another master’s degree in business. Post-graduation, I landed a wonderful job and made significant career progress. Throughout this time, I never stopped dancing. I continued to practice and perform at various events.
In 2004, the birth of my daughter made me realize my deep love for dance and my desire to pass it on to the next generation. This led me to consider teaching dance seriously. After my son was born and grew a bit older, I began teaching. I quit my corporate job and opened a dance studio.
Since then, there has been no looking back. I started with just a few students. Over the years, my school has grown significantly. This year marks 15 years of teaching, and I am very excited to see what the future holds.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey has been rewarding but not without challenges. The initial decision to quit my stable job at a successful software company in California was difficult. The support of my husband was crucial in making this transition, especially because of criticism from friends and family who doubted my decision.
Adjusting to a lower income and the struggle to popularize Kathak, especially in comparison to more established dance forms like Bharatanatyam, were early challenges. Additionally, I faced a major leg injury a few years into teaching, which slowed me down but never stopped me. Despite these obstacles, I have found the journey to be immensely fulfilling.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Kathak dancer and teacher running Meenal’s Academy of Performing Arts (MAPA), affiliated with Bharati Vidyapeeth University in Pune, India.
My studio offers a structured curriculum with certificate exams from Foundation to Diploma levels. I teach students of all age groups. I am proud of my students, many of whom have been with me for over ten years and who have progressed from young beginners to diploma candidates. The structured training I provide reflects the teachings of my Guru-s, ensuring high-quality education for all ages and levels.
My attention to detail and my teaching methodology sets me apart. I believe in creating not just good dancers but well-rounded artists who excel in the Practical and the Theoretical aspects of Dance. In addition to that, I am known for my choreography. I love creating dance dramas and ballets. Our student recitals are grand productions.
In addition to that, my students often get invited to perform at prestigious events and venues. Notable works include a ballet with over 100 dancers on the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu and other ballets created for fundraisers for Sewa International. My upcoming ballet, “Ritu Rang,” celebrating the seasons, marks our 15th-year recital on June 9th.
How do you think about luck?
I consider myself very lucky and blessed. I am grateful for the guidance of my Gurus, a supportive community, committed students, and dedicated parents.
The encouragement from my family and friends has been invaluable. Although I have faced challenges and bad luck, the support system around me has helped turn these situations into positive experiences.
Overall, I feel fortunate and blessed on this journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: mapasd.com
- Instagram: @mapasd_meenalchakradeo; @meenalchakradeo
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MAPAsd/
Image Credits
Vikram Bhide Photography and Ekspressions by Anand Sangam
