Gourav is a popping artist from Jaipur who learnt how to dance at age 8 and has been getting down in dance battles since age 9.
Gourav Sarwan at Red Bull Dance Your Style 2024 North India Qualifiers
© Focus Sports
Gourav says he loves everything about street dance culture and is living his dream because he gets paid to do what he loves the most – dance!
Here he speaks about his journey as a professional dancer, the people he draws his inspiration from, and much more.
Are you part of any crew?
Where do you usually practice?
I usually practice with friends in their house or in studios in Jaipur.
Could you tell us about how you got started in dance and your journey so far?
I started dancing when I was eight years old. My father supported my passion for dance from the very beginning. I think I’d only taken a few classes when I decided to get down in my first dance battle. I’ve also participated in a few reality television shows.
Gourav Sarwan at Red Bull Dance Your Style 2024 North India Qualifiers
© Focus Sports
What is the main street dance style you practice? How or why did you get drawn to this style?
My main style is popping. When I’d just started learning dance, I’d seen some people popping at a jam called HipHopstani in Jaipur. In music, bass is the fundamental that holds a song together, and these guys were timing their pops perfectly to the bass. That was what attracted me to the style.
Aside from your main style, what other street dance styles do you practice?
I’ve learnt almost all styles. I regularly practice locking, hip-hop and house, along with popping.
Which is your favourite genre of music or favourite song to dance to?
Initially I used to practice to funk music. But you cannot predict what songs will come up in a battle, so I now practice on every genre.
Who are the dancers from the local and international scene who have inspired you?
I’ve always followed the OGs, the creators of the style – like Boogaloo Sam and Popin’ Pete. I’m also inspired by Salah.
What do you love most about street dance culture?
I love everything about the culture.
What do you remember of your first-ever dance battle?
I was nine years old during my first battle. That experience was amazing. I was a kid, so I didn’t think too much when going into it. I just did what I felt like doing at that moment.
Gourav Sarwan at Red Bull Dance Your Style 2024 North India Qualifiers
© Focus Sports
What has been your greatest achievement in dance so far?
Being the first runner-up in India’s Best Dancer 2 and fourth runner-up in Super Dancer Chapter 3.
Is there any one stage, event, or competition that will be a dream achieved if you perform there?
Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals
Is there a particular goal or target you have set for yourself in your dance career?
I’m doing what I love and I’m getting paid for it. What else could I ask for?
Any dancer across the world that you want to collaborate with?
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