Hi, my name is Saisha Gulati, a junior, and along with my friend Suri Brahmbhatt, a senior at Stockdale High School in Bakersfield, we share a deep and enduring passion for Indian classical dance. I am an accomplished Kathak dancer, while Suri has undergone extensive training in Bharatanatyam. For both of us, dance is far more than an extracurricular activity – it is a disciplined art form shaped by over a decade of rigorous training, perseverance, and personal growth, culminating in a meaningful milestone in our artistic journeys. 

 

Together, we represent and celebrate two of India’s most revered classical dance traditions. Kathak is distinguished by its intricate footwork, fluid spins, and expressive storytelling, while Bharatanatyam is characterized by strong, grounded postures, precise geometric movements, and symbolic hand gestures known as mudras. Both forms are rooted in centuries-old traditions that combine rhythm, music, storytelling, and spiritual devotion, originating in temple practices and preserved through the guru-disciple tradition. 

 

Motivated by our shared belief that dance fosters not only artistic expression but also physical health, mental wellness, and emotional connection, we co-founded Dance Fit, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making movement accessible, engaging, and meaningful within the community. As founder and co-founder, respectively, we have transformed our vision into impactful action. 

 

Through Dance Fit, we have led engaging dance and movement sessions at local nursing homes, creating moments of joy, connection, and vitality for residents. We have also partnered with the Blue Zones Project in Bakersfield to conduct Bollywood dance and fitness “Moai” sessions, encouraging community members to stay active in a fun and culturally enriching environment. The Blue Zones team expressed deep appreciation for our commitment, noting that our enthusiasm, responsibility, and passion created an inclusive and uplifting atmosphere that brought people together through dance. 

 

I further extended this mission internationally during a winter break visit to India in 2025. In my grandparents’ hometown, I conducted interactive dance and fitness workshops for elementary school children at an underserved school and a local nonprofit organization. These sessions inspired children to embrace movement, creativity, and self-expression while demonstrating how dance can serve as a joyful pathway to physical activity, confidence, and well-being. 

 

Together, we have also contributed our talents to a wide range of community events, including performances and workshops at temples, Indian cultural programs, the American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life event, and the Black Family Wellness Expo. An American Cancer Society manager praised our dedication to community service, noting how we raise awareness about mental health through cultural expression and use dance as a powerful tool to uplift, connect, and inspire others. Our collaborative efforts have been met with enthusiasm and appreciation, not only for the quality of our instruction and performances but also for the inclusivity, cultural understanding, and community spirit we foster. 

 

Through our dedication, leadership, and passion, we demonstrate how classical art forms can evolve beyond tradition to become powerful vehicles for health and wellness, service, and community engagement. Through Dance Fit, we continue to inspire individuals of all ages to move, connect, celebrate culture, and embrace healthier lifestyles in meaningful and lasting ways.