Geeta Kapur reveals she started dancing for money, says dance was never a career option in the 90s
Mumbai, June 25
Choreographer and television personality Geeta Kapur recalled her initial days as a dancer in the Bollywood industry, back in the early 90s, when dancing was never considered a viable career option.
In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Geeta said the landscape has transformed dramatically over the years, with dance now being viewed as a legitimate and rewarding career path.
"The dance concept has changed. It is now looked at as a career option. When we were dancing, it was not a career option," she said.
Recalling her early days, Geeta shared that financial considerations became a motivating factor as opportunities in the field increased.
"We did it because we wanted to earn money. We were getting work at that time. But I won't say it was only about earning money. We did it because we loved it. It was a hobby that turned into a career," she explained.
The renowned choreographer added that she never imagined dance would become her profession when she first started learning it.
"For me, dance was a hobby. My mother enrolled me in classes where I learnt the basics of folk dance, Kathak and Bharatanatyam. I never thought I would earn money from it, make a career out of it, or become a choreographer," Geeta recalled.
However, things began to change when she started receiving paid assignments and realised that dance could provide financial stability.
"When I saw that it could be a source of income, especially after I started working with Jaaved Jaaferi, I realised the income was increasing. Earlier we used to perform for Rs 500 or Rs 1,000, and even Rs 1,000 was considered a big amount then," she said.
Talking about Geeta Kapur, the dancer has been a part of the Bollywood industry for almost three decades. She has assisted Farah Khan in many of her super hit songs.
The iconic song Tujhe Yaad Na Meri Aayi from the super hit movie Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, featured on Geeta Kapur.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Rs 500 for a performance? That's nothing today, but in the 90s, it was decent money. People don't realize how much the industry has changed—now choreographers earn lakhs and get recognition like actors. Respect for Geeta Kapur's journey! 🙌
I appreciate her honesty. Many people from that era did jobs just for survival, not passion. But turning a hobby into a career is the best feeling. Today's generation is lucky—dance, music, art, all are respected professions now. Still, we need more institutions and support for aspiring dancers in smaller towns.
Always admired Geeta Kapur! She's been a part of so many hit songs. Tujhe Yaad Na Meri Aayi is iconic—who knew it was her? 😍 But honestly, I think even today, dancing as a career is tough unless you're lucky or have connections. The struggle is real.
Interesting perspective from someone who lived through the transition. I'm from the US, and even here, dance wasn't taken seriously as a career until shows like Dancing with the Stars. It's cool to see how Bollywood has evolved. Respect for following your passion! 🇮🇳✨
True, but I wonder if the pressure to earn money makes people lose the art itself. Today's dance numbers are all about moves and not about expressions or storytelling. But anyway, happy for Geeta ji—she worked hard and deserves all the success! 💃
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