Today we’d like to introduce you to Geeta Shirvalkar.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
DnB (Dance n Beats) Magnets is a team effort of people who love to dance, sing, choreograph and express their happiness through music. The concept of having this group or channel came to my mind when I saw many hidden talents around me. Each of us has a unique talent and they need a platform to showcase it.
I am a passionate dancer and enjoy choreographing a variety of dances/ performances for others. I have learnt Bharatanatyam since I was six and later completed Arangetram: which is equivalent to the Graduation ceremony that usually takes place after 10 years of extensive learning and practicing. Bharatanatyam is a South Indian classical dance form; but once you learn any classical dance form, learning a new form becomes easier except for Ballet (my toes hurt). I also teach Bollywood along with Bharatanatyam, which is mostly the music from Hindi Movies from Mumbai, India. Speaking of Mumbai, I am originally from Mumbai, India and have participated in numerous shows and competitions in India. I came to the US in 2007 and since then I have been trying to spread the beauty of Indian dance. I am also an Engineer by profession and a loving Mom to two energetic boys. So sometimes it becomes really difficult to pursue my passion but my entire family and extended family is very supportive. I am lucky enough to always have a group of encouraging friends who also give me honest feedback at times.
During Covid lockdowns, everyone spent a good amount of time on social media and there I discovered a vast talent pool around me. Then a thought came to my mind that this hidden talent should have a platform. So I started compiling my videos from the past and displaying them on a YouTube channel. I later approached my friends and family to determine if they were interested and thus, DnB Magnets was formed in May 2020. The Dance n Beats Magnets are here to attract hidden talent and a good audience. My friends and family (husband especially) help me with editing and recording. Now, I have started liking behind-the-camera action too and am trying to learn as many techniques as I can. Here is a link to our channel on YouTube –https://www.youtube.com/c/
You can see a variety of dances/songs/performances such as Classical, Belly dance fusions, contemporary and Bollywood; that our team performs on this channel. Some videos that I think are interesting include a message in addition to being our rendition of the original
e.g., “O re Piya” which was published on Earth’s Day showed the beauty of four seasons – https://youtu.be/-FeY9r2w6ks
“International Sign language day” video describes the Hand Gestures aka Sign Language used in Indian Dance. – https://youtu.be/jwSa9HaZD3g
Some songs are dedicated to Father’s day, World’s listening day, Women’s Day, etc.
Most of these performances have subtitles to them so everyone can understand the meaning. By the way, our Halloween videos are very special and people love them. Smita is our Lead singer (her voice is magic) and Tanvi and Sejal are our youth icons. Our core team comprises of these four performers. We are located in all four corners of this world but still are connected and together. We are always in search of good topics to display on our channel and hence need the support to spread the word about our channel and grow through this musical journey!!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Of course not! Nothing comes easy.. every bit of success needs pure hard work and some luck!
The main constraint was “Time”, I have to balance everything: work, kids – their schedule and husband’s travel. I then realized the importance of prioritization.
Sometimes, things do not go as planned. Weather doesn’t cooperate, people fall sick around performances, technology fails , costume malfunctions, etc. When collaborating, differences of opinions, time management, and leadership skills put me to the test.
Even if the final published performance is under 5 minutes, the steps involved in making any such piece take many days and involves: thinking of the concept, creating the choreography, and finally execution and editing the footage. I split the work amongst our team but the final review, uploading and publishing with captions is entirely my responsibility. So, if I don’t get the edits or videos in time it adds up to my frustration.
After this much effort, when the performance is published and we don’t receive an expected response, we take it as a lesson learnt and try even harder.
But I have learnt one thing – if you believe in your work “Never Give Up”, keep doing it .. not for others but for your own satisfaction and happiness!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I think dance is the most beautiful and expressive form of art. Dance is my life, my passion. It gives me immense pleasure to perform, teach, and choreograph dances. I also sing, record and edit performances (only for my channel). I have studied different dance forms along with Bharatanatyam and many people say that I am a versatile dancer. In any performance, I always create my own unique moves. Personally, I think my specialty is dancing with soul and my expressions, few think my eyes speak!
I am also trying to be a good leader to keep DnB Magnets together and keep it moving. DnB Magnets is a unique way to find and showcase hidden talent in the form of dance, singing and music. We give chance to new good talent by grooming them for the camera. Along with dancing skills, we also provide the lessons and tips to be effective on camera. All of our performances are in the form of a story and they send a message to raise awareness in the society. DnB Magnets is not just a regular YouTube channel but one with the intent of creating flavorful, fresh & meaningful performances and will continue creating such videos which touch audiences’ hearts!
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Yes, I always ask the experts in the field for their feedback on my work and never hesitate to approach. Everyone is busy in their lives, but the one who genuinely wants you to succeed makes time for you and is your true well-wisher and friend. I am fortunate enough to have a good friend like Jyotsna who works in the Bollywood Industry. She keeps me on my toes. Thanks Jyo for everything!
I have made some friends through social media from the film industry who guide me occasionally and last but not the least my family & close friends also act as good critics.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnbmagnets
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nalandapgh/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DnBMagnets
Image Credits
Vivek Kulkarni- my Husband
