TikTok has duets. Instagram has remixes.
And now, one Los Angeles performer is taking her passion for Bollywood cinema and recreating side-by-side dance scenes from famous Bollywood films — move-by-move and shot-by-shot — all from inside her apartment.
What You Need To Know
- Shiksha Mahtani, also known as "Bollygirl," started her social media journey in 2016 because she wanted to share her Indian culture and inspire people
- Other than creating Bollywood dances, Mahtani also works as a television and radio host
- She interviews different Bollywood stars, directors and actors, as well as Indian influencers
- Mahtani's side by side dance videos on her YouTube channel
Shiksha Mahtani, also known as “Bollygirl,” started her social media journey in 2016.
"I wanted a way to share my Indian culture with the people around me," she said. "And I also wanted to inspire people to be the stars of their own lives. My motto is, 'I’m actually going to be a Bollywood star. You can be one too.' What inspired me to do these side-by-side videos is that I wanted to show that you can be anything you want to be."
Mahtani explained how when she began making videos, she did not know anything about editing. But she didn't let that discourage her.
“If you look at my first few videos, you will see that the editing is not exactly matched up. But my family really liked it and were proud that I did it. That inspired me to continue to learn to continue to improve upon my process. I use a tripod, my iPhone, and my laptop and a ring light. That is literally it.”
Mahtani's video process begins by watching the music video to a song she loves and finding outfits in her own closet.
"What I found out is that there is no way I am not going to find a replica for the outfit, but you can get close enough," she said. "I will try to find the most affordable way to do it DIY."
There was a time when Mahtani did have to spend money for an accessory, but she says she was able to find everything she needed at Dollar Tree.
"I went to the Dollar Store and I found different crafty things, and I just did it. It costed like $5 total, and I made it. I say, 'Do what you can with what you have, and just go for it.'"
Other than creating Bollywood dances, Mahtani also works as a television and radio host.
"I interview different Bollywood stars, directors, actors, as well as Indian influencers. My favorite Bollywood movie of all time is 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.' I would literally stand in front of the television and act out the scenes as a kid because of how much I love that movie. With streaming sites, the internet and social media, I can better keep track of what is being released. And I can choose songs from newer movies as well."
Mahtani added that she has learned many lessons through her journey.
"It does not take fancy clothes or fancy equipment. It takes perseverance. It is not easy, and it takes a lot of effort and hard work. With the right attitude and work ethic, you can accomplish anything."
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Daniel Kim, center, a former patient who survived COVID-19, and his son Evan walk to join hospital staff members after delivering a speech during an event at Providence St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton, Calif., May 10, 2021. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)