Samir Pasad is one of the guy I admire in the Salsa circle. He is a unassuming guy who looks more like a stock broker(may be he is), and suddenly changes into a fabulous graceful Salsa dancer on the dance floor. He bears no allegiance to any salsa club, and can be seen at most of the “happening’ Salsa Parties and Festival.Here is a short Interview with Samir Prasad.
How and when did you get introduced to Salsa?
I had gone to ‘Starters & More’ for their Dance Club nite where I saw Ashwin Mushran dancing Salsa in 2003. He had just moved down from UK. From the moment I saw him dancing, I wanted to learn salsa. I was learning Ballroom from Sandip Soparrkar at that time. Sandip was not keen on teaching salsa at that time. So I joined Ashwin’s classes.
And how were you inspired you to continue dancing? And how many more years would you be dancing Salsa?
There is something unique about Latin music which has inspired me to continue dancing. Initially there were just few places which played Latin music. It started from ‘Starters & More’ and then there was ‘Liquid Lounge’ and ‘Trafalgar Chowk’. We used to look forward to Latin themed events. Salsa is very addictive. It’s like a drug. Once you get hooked, there is no looking back. It just grows on you. The driving beat of the music makes you want to move. When you dance with your partner and make a connection, this dance can turn passionate and sensual in a sexy way. How many more years… May be for ever…
Who do you think one should look out for in the Mumbai Salsa scene and a brilliant dancer?
Kaytee Namgyal and Avan Mehta
How long have you been dancing Salsa and which is you other favorite Latin dance?
I have been dancing salsa for almost 6 years. Other favourite Latin dance is Bachata, and Cha Cha.
What difference has Salsa made to your life?
It has made me overcome my shyness and made me much more confident. Salsa has given a new platform to make friends and network. Salsa parties are a great way to socialize and release stress. Salsa is like meditation. Whenever I travel for work or pleasure, I keep evenings free for going to local salsa clubs. I have been to salsa clubs in Kuala Lampur, Singapore, Dubai, Chicago, San Francisco and New York
Tell us something about your profession?
I was into Commodity Futures before. I met my current business partner Avinash (HAS juice bar) at Kaytee’s salsa class. HAS juice bar is India’s 1st juice bar chain specializing in fresh juices and smoothies. I am also planning to get into Health Food.
What do you think about the Salsa Parties happening in Mumbai? For e.g. Zenzi , Rio.
Dragonfly was great. It has a huge dance floor. But unfortunately it has closed down. Zenzi is most happening but too crowded these days. Zenzi Mills is better. Bohemia was good. Rio is ok. Not been to H2O.
How many congresses in India and around the world have you attended?
Two Salsa India Festivals, Mumbai 2007 and Delhi 2005. Salsa Weekender in Goa 2008. Washington DC Salsa Congress 2006.
How would you rate the Salsa India Congress (by Salsa India) and the India International Salsa Congress (by lvds)?
I have not been for any of India International Salsa Congress (by lvds). Salsa India Festivals have been great. Missed the last one in Mumbai.
What do you think about Mumbai Salsa Meetup? Do you think Iam doing a good job by reviewing dance school and instructors ? Any suggestions on how to make the community and the Sa Sa Salsaaaa website better?
It’s a good platform to interact with other salsa enthusiasts. You are doing great. Don’t get to see you at Salsa Parties of late. Some of your reviews have been spot on.
