Another Bay Area BollyX Rockstar Instructor in the house! BollyX instructor, Mrudula, is a full time student who teaches BollyX along with working with children in academic and extracurricular enrichment. Read more about this multitasking rockstar in her interview below!

Q: Tell us about yourself – what do you do when you’re not teaching? What are your hobbies? What other formats do you teach? Give us a little on your background.

A: Hi! I am Mrudula and I consider myself to be the embodiment of everything wonderful India has to offer in one small frame. I grew up in the south of India, so Bollywood culture, music, and dance are a part of my identity. I’ve been dancing since I was three years old, and I make up for my lack of dance training by learning anything and everything I can from YouTube videos. When I’m not teaching or practicing BollyX choreography, I’m working with children and youth in academic and extra-curricular enrichment. I’m also a full time student working to get my undergraduate degree through an online program, while developing a floral business I’ve cofounded with my best friend and partner on the side. In my free time I love dancing, reading non-fiction while enjoying a steaming mug of homemade chai, event planning, and working on DIY projects.

Q: How would you describe BollyX in one word?

A: Vivacious!! I love looking around the class and seeing everyone enjoying themselves to the fullest. High spirits and exuberance are common, especially when people get a chance to showcase their attitude and swag. The music and choreo bring out the most fun and lively side of all participants and it’s great to see their confidence rise steadily as the class goes on.

Q: What is your favorite part of BollyX class?

A: The performance section is an obvious favorite but there is one part of the class that trumps all others. I love seeing the spark of excitement in an attendee’s face when their favorite BollyX choreo is about to begin or when they recognize a new song being introduced. It’s delightful to see their wide smiles and their eagerness to show off moves that they’ve memorized.

Q: How has working with BollyX changed you or your lifestyle?

A: The BollyX community became my sole motivation to get back into the fitness lifestyle. The Bay Area BollyX family, and especially the lovely Tamara Kodner, helped me build a great deal of confidence and opened a new door to my one true passion – dance. I’m highly inspired by all the interactions I see within our community and always look forward to learning from our fellow instructors. Currently, I’m working on introducing healthier options to my diet and it’s nice to be able to reach out to fellow BollyX instructors to learn more about their health and fitness lifestyles. BollyX has helped bring a sense of balance to my life and teaching classes has become something I eagerly look forward to as a way to relax, reenergize, and bring joy to others.

Q: How long have you been with BollyX and what inspired you to join the community?

I’ve been BollyX certified since April 2015. Although it has just been one year, being a part of this community has become a large part of my daily life. I had never been to a BollyX class before I had decided to attend the instructor certification training, but one quick internet search was enough to convince me that this is exactly where I belonged. I enjoy teaching the format and it’s gratifying to know that I’m inspiring others to continue making progress in their respective fitness journeys.

Q: What is your favorite BollyX song to teach?

This is an impossible question to answer. I have so many favorites!! I Hate Luv Storys, Kar Gayi Chull, Malhari and on and on. However, there are two songs that all my classes love to dance to, and request over and over again – One Two Three Four, and Go Go Govinda. Both of these songs bring out cheers and wonderful participant interaction.

Q: Where do you teach BollyX?

I teach at the East Valley YMCA on Tuesdays at 10:30am, Fridays at 6:30pm, and Sundays at 10:00am. I also teach a weekly class at ClubSport San Jose on Fridays at 10:15am.

Q: Anything else you want to add?

A: A Huge Shoutout: As I’ve mentioned previously, my current goal is to introduce healthier food choices into my diet. I’ve got to give thanks to the amazing Malvika Raj and Zuliya Khawaja for their incredible blogs – chockfull of the most wholesome, yet mind bogglingly scrumptious recipes.

Check out Mrudula’s profile and a list of her classes here!