Interview with Manoj Dupati | Advaita Dance Academy
I hope this can inspire you to become a successful entrepreneur too! Why is it important to hear the story of a successful entrepreneur?
Having the vision to become an entrepreneur is great. Making it happen is another story!
In that frame, I had the pleasure to interview Manoj Dupati, Artistic Director of Advaita Dance Academy.
1. What gets you out of bed in the morning i.e what’s your source of motivation?
My work, work place, dance and music keep me motivated. Pursuing your work makes one feel more interesting. Like they say every day is a new day, and you will never be able to find happiness and growth if you do not move… so better get out of bed and keep moving.
2. Why should people choose your product/services? What inspires you to dance?
The word Dance itself is very inspiring. Although dance is a visual medium for the audience, the way we dancers feel every time we listen to some music, read mythological stories or watch seniors perform it makes us feel inspired.
3. What’s your competitive advantage and why can’t it be copied? Tell us about your Academy.
Advaita Dance Academy is a place where we teach Indian classical dance forms, Bollywood, freestyle, western forms and Indian Contemporary. Other than dance, we teach kalarippayattu (Kerala Martial art) and Yoga. Our USP is rigorous dance training and performance. Our students have been fortunate to perform on both National and international platforms.
4. Have you considered any alliance/partnership?
I am fortunate to meet dancers, Musicians, Art connoisseurs. I always get some opportunity to learn from them and exchange ideas.
5. What comes first for you money or emotions?
It is the passion, which comes first.
6. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
My strength is my family, My Weakness is about not prioritizing important tasks I’m not very good at gauging how long a task will take me to finish. Be it the dance rehearsals or the working on new dance piece The result is that I don’t delegate enough time to the larger, more important stuff. At last, I have to rush to get things done
7. Tell me about an accomplishment you are most proud of.
Every time you see your students take the stage and perform that is very satisfying
8. How do you handle the pressure?
Just stay calm and focused. I do yoga and exercise whenever I get time.
9. What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
I am a lover of the arts in general. I love reading books and listening to Carnatic music. I think my appreciation for all art forms helps with my knowledge and creativity as a performer.
10. If you could give advise for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
Try learning all styles. Push yourself outside your comfort zone and expose yourself to as much of the art form as possible. There is so much movement to explore that will only help guide you to find yourself and your own style.
11. What’s the one question you were expecting most and I haven’t asked you?
I just ask the parents and students who want to pursue dance to be flexible and resourceful, tolerant and open. Have trust and faith in your teacher. He/she will ensure that you reach new heights.
