These dancers with disabilities prove that limitations exist only in the mind, not in the rhythm of a passionate heart
Paulo Coelho once said ‘When you dance, you can enjoy the luxury of being you.’
Dancers with Disabilities are true examples of determination, creativity, and resilience. Their performances challenge stereotypes and showcase that dance is not limited by physical ability, but a language of the soul. Here is a list of 10 Indian dancers with disabilities who have defied expectations and shattered stereotypes, proving that talent has no boundaries. These artists and dancers with disabilities, have mastered their craft and inspired others with their hard work, passion, and dedication.
1. Korok Biswas
Korok Biswas is a passionate dancer known for his remarkable dance performances. He is an intellectually challenged dance performer with Down syndrome who has become a celebrated figure in the field of arts and one of the most known dancers with disabilities in India. Korok specializes in Gaudiya Nritya, a classical dance form of Bengal, and has been under the mentorship of Guru Smt. Kaberi Puitandy Kar since 2014. He has been recognized as a registered dance performer by the International Dance Council (CID), UNESCO and honoured with the National Scholarship in Dance by the Centre for Cultural Resources & Training (CCRT), Government of India. Korok won The Pradhan Mantri Bal Shakti Puraskar in 2020 making him the first to receive this prestigious honour. He has performed at the Indian Parliament House, Rashtrapati Bhawan, and Balayogi Bhawan, representing West Bengal on various occasions.
2. We are One Group
We are One Group is a differently abled dance group known for their soul stirring and electrifying dance performances.Formed in 2016, it was established by Husnain, a Bharatanatyam dancer with training.The academy is famous for their dance performances using wheelchairs and have performed 500 shows across eight countries.They hold the distinction of being India’s first wheelchair group to perform Salsa, and are trained in dance styles such as Bollywood, Hip Hop,Freestyle, Bharatanatyam, and Contemporary. Dignitaries including the Presidents of India and Singapore have praised the band after their performances at major locations like the Wagah Border. Notable media such as The Better India and The Global Hues have highlighted WAO’s effect on encouraging diversity via dance by featuring their remarkable journey. They are a perfect fit for events that support diversity, inclusiveness, and social change because of their inspiring commitment to using dance to empower the disabled.
3. Usaid Shaikh
Usaid Shaikh is a Mumbai based dancer with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). He is a multi-talented artist known for his exceptional dance skills and soulful tunes.He has a natural talent for music as well, having studied the piano and keyboard for fourteen years and is now getting ready to take his level five examinations at London’s Trinity Music College.His extraordinary dancing abilities have brought him fame as he was selected by the dance legend Shiamak Davar’s Victory Arts Foundation dance company ever since. His short film True Happiness was screened at the Mumbai International Film Festival 2020, showcasing his filmmaking skills. Usaid is a multi-talented performer whose capabilities provide the audience with a variety of ways to be entertained.
4. Divya Shankar
Divya Shankar is a classical dancer who is known for her culturally rich graceful performances. She started her dancing career at the age of 8 years old has over 12+ years of experience as a dancer. From Ernakulam, Kerala Divyas was diagnosed with Down syndrome at a young age. But that has not stopped her from chasing her dreams of becoming a dancer. She has performed on over a hundred stages during her eight years of classical dance training. In 2018, she performed two hours of Bharatanatyam, earning her the title of “Girl with Down Syndrome Performing Bharatnatyam” in India’s Book of Records. She defied all the difficulties of being disabled and performs in classical dances. As she is skilled in Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, and Bharatanatyam. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, Divya’s performances inspire and uplift audiences from all walks of life.
5. Kamlesh Patel
Kamlesh Patel is a popular Indian dancer, paralyzed from the waist down known for unique “Dance on Hands” has won him a lot of appreciation and awards. He was paralyzed from the waist down after a medical accident when he was just five years old. He has participated in famous dance reality shows likeDance India Dance (D.I.D.), Boogie Woogie, Chak de Awards and has been the winner of “All Gujarat Dance Competition”. Kamlesh runs the ‘Mahadev Dance Studio,’ which focuses on training individuals with disabilities and has delivered more than 3,000 performances across India and internationally. Kamlesh has turned his hardship into art throughout the years. Enthralling audiences with performances that combine modern motions with traditional Indian dance, all performed with his hands.
6. Sudha Chandran
Sudha Chandra is an Indian actress and Bharatnatyam dancer known for her acting abilities and graceful moves. At the age of 16, Sudha Chandran suffered a leg injury in Tamil Nadu in an accident which led to the amputation of her right leg. Despite the difficult time, she managed to recover using a fake Jaipur foot and resumed dancing after two years. Chandran gained widespread recognition for her acting debut in the film “Mayuri” (1985), based on her life story. Chandran’s dedication to her craft has earned her several awards and acknowledgements. Including the Nandi Special Jury Award for Best Supporting Actress and the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her journey from a successful classical dancer to a celebrated actress is an inspiring example of overcoming difficulties and pursuing one’s passion with determination.
7. Vinod Thakur
Vinod Thakur is a highly skilled dancer known for his exceptional dance moves. He was born in Bihar, with no legs and a 60% locomotor disability, but this did not stop him from pursuing his dreams. He gained recognition for his exceptional dancing skills on India’s Got Talent Season 2 and was runner-up of Nach Baliye Season 6, aired on StarPlus in 2014. Vinod is also a bodybuilder and health enthusiast. Earning a living through dance shows and using his social media to help others. Won gold at the national level, demonstrating his commitment to fitness and strength training. He also founded a dance institute to teach aspiring dancers, including those with impairments, and promote inclusion in the arts. Vinod Thakur breaks barriers with every performance. With his graceful moves and charismatic personality, Vinod brings heart and soul to every dance performance.
8. Riza Reji
Riza Reji is a versatile artist and performer who has gained international recognition for her achievements as a model, dancer, and advocate for individuals with Down syndrome. She was diagnosed with Down syndrome, but by defying all odds she pursued dance. Riza has trained with Shiamak Davar Dance Company, Laveena Ashish Dance Company, and Preetesh Tumlu. She has also been involved in drama and movement with Art Courtyard Productions and is currently pursuing theatre and movement under Diana Tholooor. In 2022, Riza, became the first Indian to participate in the “Be Beautiful, Be Yourself” fashion show. Organized by the Global Down Syndrome Foundation in Denver, Colorado aimed at raising funds for cognitive health research. She is also a talented visual artist and painter and makes beautiful landscapes. Hire Riza as she brings classical elegance to modern events, voice and create a deep connection with audiences.
9. Abhinav Chaudhary
Abhinav Chaudhary is a versatile dancer, actor, model and mimicry artist. He has performed over 250+ dancing shows and has received about 100 awards from prestigious organizations.Abhinav has received numerous awards including the National Award 2023 for “Shreshth Divyangjan” in Art & Culture, the UP State Awards 2019 for Creative Disabled Personality in Dance & Cultural Activities, and the World Record for Maximum Dance Performs performed by a Special Child.He has also appeared in a Google advertisement and displayed his talent on dance reality like “Dance India Dance.”Abhinav is dedicated to giving back to the society outside of his performances. He operates the ABN Dance Academy. Offering free dance instruction to kids from disadvantaged families and those with special needs while promoting an inclusive and empowering atmosphere. He is one of the most known dancers with disabilities in India.
10. Sachin Vajpayee
Sachin Vajpayee, is an outstanding dancer with a locomotor disability. His love for dance began when he started watching Dance India Dance in 2012 and started giving auditions for different reality shows. His first audition was India’s Got Talent Season 4, where he got rejected but it did not hinder his dreams. He was a top-performing contestant in Dance India Dance Season 5 in 2015. Sachin Vajpayee’s journey in the entertainment industry is particularly inspiring due to his resilience in the face of physical challenges. Despite being on a wheelchair, he has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, proving that passion and dedication can overcome any obstacle. Sachin is known for his sincerity, exceptional professionalism, and ability to engage with diverse audiences. Book Sachin for his warm presence and electrifying moves, he effortlessly creates a comfortable and lively atmosphere at every event.
Unstoppable Moves, Unbreakable Spirit
These dancers with disabilities inspire audiences worldwide by sharing their stories of courage, perseverance, and the will to rise above limitations. Their performances are not just choreography, but celebrations of spirit, passion, and uniqueness. They challenge norms and inspire a more inclusive view of the arts. Reminding us that disability is not a hindrance to excellence but a powerful force for innovation and change.
If you wish to book these talented dancers with disabilities of India. Search no more! Visit our site engage4more.com and our passionate team shall guide you to experience the pinnacle of the music industry. We at engage4more have worked with over 2500+ talented artists and can provide the best assistance to make your event memorable. Not only that you can also take advantage of our free publicity by our post-event coverage via our social media handles!
