In this episode of Wisdom Whispers with Abhishek Mittal, host Abhishek Mittal engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Dr. Parul Purohit Wats. Dr. Parul, a distinguished Kathak dancer and Dean at the School of Performing Arts under the University of Design, discusses the significant role of education in pursuing a career in the performing arts. They explore the necessity of foundational learning in classical dance forms, the therapeutic nature of dancing, aspects of self-exploration, and the importance of understanding body mechanics for longevity in the art form. Dr. Parulshares her journey, the influence of her Rajasthan heritage, and the holistic approach that encompasses not just the dance but also the associated elements like costuming, stage presence, and the business side of the arts. The conversation also touches upon how social media and brand building play a crucial role in a dancer's career today. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in classical dance, the performing arts, and understanding the integration of traditional knowledge with modern practices. 00:35 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:22 The Importance of Education in Dance 03:37 Connecting Dance with Self-Exploration 05:02 Dance as a Career and Its Challenges 09:49 The Therapeutic Nature of Classical Dance 12:11 Rapid Fire Questions 20:46 The Role of Cultural Heritage in Dance 23:18 Holistic View of Performing Arts 24:47 Storytelling in Dance 26:16 The Business Side of Performing Arts 27:22 Justifying Your Worth 27:39 The Lifelong Study of Soft Skills 28:12 Conveying Social Messages Through Dance 29:36 The Importance of Language and Self-Worth 31:35 Dance and Mental Wellbeing 33:48 The Therapeutic Nature of Dance 39:00 Evolving Dance as a Career 45:55 Building a Brand in Performing Arts 49:40 Cross-Training for Dancers 51:29 Final Thoughts and Advice for Young Artists About Wisdom Whispers with Abhishek Wisdom Whispers with Abhishek Mittal is a podcast aimed at young professionals. The show offers practical insights into the corporate world, equipping listeners with effective tools and techniques to manage their jobs. We emphasise applying these strategies in real-life scenarios and focusing on growing both professional and personal networks About Abhishek Abhishek Mittal is a seasoned M&A professional with over 18 years of experience in management consulting. He has worked on multi-billion dollar deals across various industries and geographies, leading and managing teams of consultants. He has also taught at one of India’s top business schools, sharing his practical knowledge with aspiring leaders. Abhishek has a wide range of skills and specializes in M&A operations, such as project and program management, operating model design, process improvement, synergy analysis, and operational due diligence. He is a trusted advisor and thought leader known for his excellence and strategic vision. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wisdomwhispers_abhishekmittal Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/podcasterabhishekmittal/