The Beginning of Zindagi
Zindagi started five years ago with a group of students who were not only passionate about dance but also wanted a way to express themselves and help others learn and perform. What began as a small club to connect with their passion and South Asian culture through dance has grown into something much bigger. Today, Zindagi hosts multiple workshops, performs at cultural events on and off campus, and competes at a high level.
A Family Beyond Dance
To me, Zindagi is more than just a dance team. It is a family. It is a space where we share our love for dance, challenge ourselves creatively, and build lasting friendships. Beyond the performances and competitions, it is about the late-night practices, the laughter, and the excitement of creating something meaningful together. Being part of Zindagi has given me some of my best experiences at RIT, shaping my journey in ways I never expected.
Embracing Diverse Dance Styles
We embrace a wide range of dance styles, including Bollywood, kuthu, hip hop, contemporary, classical, bhangra, garba, and lavani. Our choreography is inspired by storytelling, personal experiences, and the energy of the music. We love blending different styles and cultures to create something unique. Our goal is always to connect with the audience and make every performance unforgettable, whether through emotion, energy, or just the pure joy of dancing.
Unforgettable Performances and Achievements
One of my favorite performances was when we brought a prison break theme to life on stage. We combined multiple dance styles (hip hop, kuthu, classical, Bollywood, contemporary, and bhangra) to tell a powerful story. The team’s chemistry, energy, and creativity were on full display, and the audience and judges loved it. Placing second at a competitive level was a huge achievement and a moment I will never forget.
The Hard Work Behind the Scenes
Behind the scenes, it is a mix of hard work, laughter, and bonding. We spend hours perfecting our routines, and it is not always easy, but the team’s energy and commitment make it all worth it. One of the best parts about Zindagi is that everyone contributes to the choreography. We constantly refine our sets, making them better with new ideas and formations. There are late-night practices, brainstorming sessions, and plenty of moments where we just push through, supporting each other. We have a tradition of celebrating small victories, whether it is completing a difficult move or nailing a routine, and those moments bring us closer as a team. Lately, we have also become very active on social media, which has been a fun way to bond beyond practice.
The Zindagi Experience
Being part of Zindagi has been a major highlight of my RIT experience. It is where I found a sense of belonging and a way to express myself creatively outside of academics. The team is always there for each other, making it easy for everyone to grow—not just as dancers, but as teammates, leaders, and individuals. It has also taught me how to balance my time and priorities better, as it involves both discipline and fun. The friendships and experiences I have had in Zindagi are some of the most cherished memories I will take with me after graduation.
Why You Should Join Zindagi
To the students interested in joining Zindagi, I would say go for it. Zindagi is not just about dancing but about being part of a team that supports and uplifts one another. Whether you are an experienced dancer or a beginner, the group will help you grow and learn. It is all about having fun, challenging yourself, and embracing the journey with the team. If you are passionate about dance and want to be part of something special, Zindagi is the place for you!
About the author
Ishan Shah is a 5th-year BS/MS Computer Science student from India. A passionate dancer, he has been a member of Zindagi since Spring 2022 and currently serves as its Treasurer. Beyond dance, Ishan is an avid football (soccer) and cricket fan, both playing and watching the sports whenever he can. He is actively involved across campus, having served as the President of OASIS, a Lead Peer Advisor Leader at International Student Services, and a Student Lab Instructor for the CS department for six semesters.