Dancer and choreographer Shakti Mohan has shared candid insights into the demanding work culture of India’s dance and entertainment industry, saying that fixed working hours rarely exist for performers. In an exclusive interaction withIndia Today, Shakti recalled working for up to 18 hours a day during her formative years, long before conversations around work-life balance gained prominence.
Speaking about popular dance and television projects such asDil Dosti Dance,Dance India DanceandJhalak Dikhhla Jaa, Shakti explained how extended shoots and rehearsals were a norm. She emphasised that dancers often operate in a mindset driven by passion rather than complaints, adding that while regulated hours are important today, motivation and love for the craft played a major role in sustaining her through gruelling schedules.
Shakti also opened up about the unexpected impact of fame on her life, admitting that public recognition initially took time to adjust to. From travelling by local transport to being recognised everywhere, she described fame as both surprising and life-altering.
Reflecting on her career choices, Shakti revealed that she consciously stepped back from acting afterDil Dosti Danceto focus on dance education and building her production brand, Nritya Shakti. Her aim, she said, was to give back to the community that supported her journey and to train aspiring dancers for professional careers.
Addressing concerns about viral dance trends and reel culture, Shakti maintained that audience acceptance ultimately decides what works. She believes trends are temporary and should be respected as part of evolving creative expression.
Shakti also spoke about sibling comparisons with her sisters Neeti, Kriti and Mukti Mohan, sharing personal anecdotes about growing up, academic pressure and their current collaboration onMohan Sisters Live. Performing together, she said, reconnects them with their childhood love for dance.
Looking ahead, Shakti confirmed that she will be launching Season 3 ofDance Across The Worldin 2026 and hinted at an upcoming acting project, signalling her return to the screen while continuing to nurture India’s growing dance ecosystem.
