Geeta Kapur says dance was not a career option in the 1990s, started performing to earn money

Mumbai: Renowned choreographer and television personality Geeta Kapur revealed that dance was never considered a serious career option when she began her journey in the early 1990s. Reflecting on her initial days in the entertainment industry, Geeta shared that she started performing to earn money, although her passion for dance remained the driving force behind her success.

Speaking exclusively, Geeta said the perception of dance as a profession has changed significantly over the years. She noted that while today many young people view dance as a promising career path, things were very different when she entered the field.

“The concept of dance 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 experiences, Geeta explained that she initially pursued dance as a hobby rather than a profession. Her mother enrolled her in dance classes where she learnt various forms, including folk dance, Kathak and Bharatanatyam.

“For me, dance was a hobby. I never thought I would earn money from it, build a career around it, or become a choreographer,” she recalled.

As opportunities in the industry grew, Geeta realised that dance could also provide financial stability. She admitted that earning money became an important motivation, especially as paid assignments started coming her way.

“We did it because we wanted to earn money. We were getting work at that time. But it was not only about money. We did it because we loved it. It was a hobby that eventually turned into a career,” she said.

The choreographer further revealed that her earnings increased after she began working with actor and dancer Jaaved Jaaferi. She remembered that even modest payments felt significant during those days.

“When 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 at that time,” Geeta shared.

Geeta Kapur has been associated with the Bollywood industry for nearly three decades and is widely recognised for her contribution to Indian dance and choreography. She worked closely with acclaimed choreographer Farah Khan and assisted her on several blockbuster songs. Geeta also appeared in the iconic track ‘Tujhe Yaad Na Meri Aayi’ from the hit film ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’.