Shaimak Davar loved to dance and so he did, despite being ridiculed, to make it his calling. Then Bollywood beckoned. With choreography becoming as crucial as screenplay, stars vied to match steps with him. And Shiamak rocked the box-office with his sophisticated moves. For many actors, his dance school has been the launch pad to stardom.
From Dil To Pagal Hai in 1987 to Jagga Jasoos in 2017, through the two decades, he has remained a master of minimalist act. There are many layers to his choreography that modulates between sleek and high-on-energy steps. It is where traditional Indian meets jazz with a high dose of contemporary western.
He has extended this experimental weave of new and familiar movements beyond Bollywood, to stage shows. The recent one being ‘Kaari Kaari’ that highlights the significance of gender equality and the need for women to stand up for their rights.
The ace choreographer is excited about expressing his thoughts through dance and explains how art is an extension of life.
What inspired you to do ‘Kaari Kaari?’
I had choreographed this piece for the graduation show of my Dance Certification Programme. Each year, we put up a show that showcases my style. Having done so many stage shows and film assignments, I now want to connect with my own self. There are issues that I feel strongly about and I can express them best through dance.
How did it feel to choreograph a dance piece with a message ?
Besides being a source of celebration and entertainment, dance is a strong agent of change. Turn the pages of history to understand how art and culture have impacted social and political revolutions across the world. Literature, painting, music and dance have been used effectively by reformers. So why not now? How can artistes turn a blind eye to the current happenings that are extremely disturbing?
How would you describe your journey as a choreographer?
Fulfilling. Every day is a process of learning and teaching. I evolve with dance. There is so much to inspire me constantly and it is a journey of translating that into movement. My mission has been to impart dance education and, therefore, my dance academy has been my priority always.
With so many youngsters taking to contemporary dance and choreography, what are the requisites of good choreography?
Training and knowledge. There is a whole lot of talent in our country and there are plenty of avenues as well. This makes me immensely happy because people can actually make dance their career. But in this era of technology, people forget the importance of training. YouTube is not the answer to knowledge. You need to learn and then create your own niche.
The venue you have loved staging a performance at?
The stage is my home, so every platform I’ve got a chance to showcase my choreographic works is special.
Have you been influenced by Indian classical dances?
My own style of contemporary work has a strong Indian folk influence. I think classical dance forms are beautiful.
I choreograph with an open mind. You cannot be creative unless you have complete freedom to think on your terms.
Dance for me is beyond genre, region, language and culture. It lets you create a world of your own and draw your own boundaries.