Name: Niki Parikh
Year: Sophomore
Major: Psychobiology
Hometown: Irvine, California
Q: For those who don’t know, what exactly is Nashaa?
Nashaa is a HFD (Hindi Film Dance) Team, also known as a Bollywood Dance Team! We perform and compete all over the nation against other college teams.
Q: What made you want to be a part of the team?
Well, I love to dance! It’s always been a passion of mine, and I also love my Indian culture. So Nashaa was a perfect way to combine the two!
Q: How is Hindi Film dance different from other kinds of dancing?
t’s really diverse because it combines many styles of Indian and American dance into one. We add in classical dancing, hip-hop and many other genres into our routines! The possibilities are endless when it comes to HDF. Plus, Hindi Film essentially “tells a story” within the routine and puts a emphasis on the production/entertainment value so it’s always fun to watch and perform! It’s very colorful, expressive and involves a big element of acting.
Q: How long have you been dancing?
I’ve been dancing since I was 5!
Q: Who/what inspired you to start dancing?
Well my family–my dad especially–has always been into Indian music, dancing, and movies so that had me interested from a young age! And once I started dancing, it became a great way to express myself and relieve stress. It just became a part of my life that I couldn’t live without!
Q: Favorite Nashaa memory?
Definitely winning 1st place at Phillyfest 2012. It was the first competition of that amazing season, plus my first HDF competition ever. The feeling of hearing our team won first place was honestly indescribable. My heart just dropped and there were so many emotions rushing through me! Easily one of the best moments of my life.
Q: What advice would you give to anyone else who wants to dance/be a part of Nashaa?
DO IT!! Dancing, in general, has so many benefits, and it’s a beautiful concept and art form. As for Nashaa, I would recommend everyone to try out! It was the best decision I’ve made in college for sure. You are able to dance almost every day, travel the world and become part of a HUGE family/support system for life!
Okay well how about some questions about yourself!
Q: Favorite place to shop? Brandy Melville!
Q: Favorite color? Mint and Coral
Q: Ideal date? Something adventurous and fun and different from a “typical” date!
Q: Favorite thing about UCLA: Nashaa of course!! hehe
Q: Favorite TV show? Arrested Development and Pretty Little Liars!
Q: Favorite music artist? Drake