From Bedroom Dancer to World Tour, Mishka on Sharing the Stage with Sunidhi Chauhan
For Mishka, what began as dancing to “Sheila Ki Jawaani” in her room at 1 a.m. has transformed into a global tour with the very artist who inspired her. A professional dancer since the age of 16, her journey has come full circle. Now having performed alongside Sunidhi Chauhan as part of the US “I Am Home” tour, she continues Celebrating the stage, Exploring new horizons, and Connecting through every performance!
“I started dancing professionally when I was 16, and since then, performing and being on stage makes me the happiest,” she shares. “This opportunity came along when I connected with Kian, the assistant choreographer, while we were performing another show together. Kian then recommended my name to our choreographer, Sherlyn, who asked me to be a part of the team, and there was no looking back.”
“Big shoutout to Sherlyn and Kian, who are such brilliant and versatile choreographers and dancers. I’ve grown up listening to Sunidhi ma’am’s music and dancing to songs like “Sheila Ki Jawaani” at 1 a.m. in my bedroom. From that, to performing alongside her on stage, has been an incredible journey.”
Living the Dream on the “I Am Home” Tour
Touring with the show has been everything she hoped for and more. After performing across India, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and now the U.S., she can’t wait for what the future holds!
“This is something I dreamed of doing ever since I started dancing professionally. Travelling the world with the “I Am Home” Tour has by far been the most fulfilling experience as a dancer… I am grateful that I get to do what I love, with the people I love. The team of dancers is almost like family to me now, and our choreographer, Sherlyn, is a second mother to all of us.”
The Moment That Gives Her Goosebumps
While every performance holds its own magic, there’s one part of the show that never fails to hit home.
“For me, it’s about the feeling I get towards the end of the show when Sunidhi ma’am sings the last line of the concert. I get goosebumps. Every. Single. Time. Seeing the audience on their feet just having a blast is the most rewarding feeling.”
Prepping for the Stage, Together
With high-energy routines and packed venues, staying grounded and in sync with the team is key. She describes the dance team’s backstage routine as both calming and connective.
“Since every show is different with its own set of challenges, I try to take a few moments to center myself and warm up. Once we get our hair [and] makeup done and set up our costumes, the dance team does a prayer together. Before every show, we make sure to give each other a hug before stepping on stage.”
What the Audience Doesn’t Always See
Though the energy on stage looks effortless, she says that the emotional work of performing often happens offstage.
“I think one thing that people might not realize about being a performing artist is that even though we all have our bad days, we show up on stage with a smile on our face. This is not easy, and it takes a lot of professionalism to show up even on days when you are feeling low. As they say, the show must go on!”
Favorite Moments from the Setlist
When asked what her favorite songs from the setlist are, she said two songs stand out in particular.
“Currently, “Aaja Nachle” is my favourite song on the set list, as it was a movie I absolutely loved as a kid and adored Madhuri Dixit dancing in it. This is one movie I can watch over and over again.
Also, the way Sunidhi ma’am performs “Sheila Ki Jawaani” live is definitely ICONIC.”
Sunidhi Chauhan: A Force On and Off Stage
Being around Sunidhi Chauhan, she says, is inspiring in every way, both artistically and personally.
“Sunidhi ma’am is so wonderful and fun to be around. She is the most inspiring and hardworking artist I have worked with so closely. I admire the wonderful dancer she is, along with being one of the most legendary singers in India.
She is an artist who takes time out to genuinely connect with everyone in her team, and we always have a fun time in her company!”
She shares one of her favorite offstage memories –
“A fond memory I have is the entire dance team dressing up and going for Beyoncé’s movie, Renaissance, with her and singing and dancing in the theatre like we were in the live concert.”
Touring the U.S. and Looking Ahead
Though it’s hard to choose a favorite stop on the U.S. leg of the tour, the experience of performing for Indian communities across the country has been especially meaningful for Mishka.
“Being amongst so many Indians halfway across the world, singing and dancing together, made me feel at home. The love for Sunidhi ma’am in every location we visited is unbelievable. It’s hard to pick a favorite!”
She’s hopeful for even more shows in the near future and encourages everyone to stay tuned.
“I am hoping we have many more shows around the world and in India very soon. You can follow me on Instagram to know what I’m up to next!”
Stay Tuned For More
Talking to Mishka was a joy. Her love for performance and her respect for her team are evident in every word. She’s an incredible talent with an infectious energy both on and off the stage.
The tour may have wrapped, but Mishka’s journey continues to inspire with the same energy that defines Celebrate, Explore, Connect!Follow her @mishka.901!
Celebrate, Explore, Connect!
Sanskar Sessions proudly shines a light on the people who make the magic happen behind the scenes.
Do you know someone you think we should feature next? Submit a tip or share your story with us. We love discovering the inspiring voices that keep our culture moving forward.
Stay connected with Sanskar Savvy for the latest in music, contests, exclusive interviews, and all things fun. Sign up for our VIP email list and follow us on social media to stay in the loop with everything Sanskar Savvy.
