Nikhil Gosavi, the trailblazing tap dancer who made history as the first Indian to represent the country at the World Tap Dance Championship in Riesa, Germany last year, is set to make his mark once again. Selected to represent India at the upcoming World Tap Dance Championship in Prague, Czech Republic, organized by the International Dance Organisation (IDO), Gosavi continues to carve a niche for himself in the global dance community.
A Passionate Journey
Hailing from Nashik, Gosavi’s journey to becoming a tap dance icon is marked by dedication and passion. Despite pursuing a degree in engineering from Pune University and his wife currently pursuing a PhD in aerospace engineering, Gosavi has steadfastly pursued his love for dance.
Discovering Tap Dance
While initially exploring various dance styles like hip-hop and contemporary, Gosavi’s encounter with the rhythmic beats of tap dancing proved to be a turning point. Captivated by the distinct sound of shoes tapping in the distance, he found his calling in tap dance and never looked back.
The New York Experience
In a bold move, Gosavi ventured to New York City, the epicenter of performing arts, to pursue his passion for tap dancing. Despite the challenges of pursuing non-traditional career paths, he found himself at the renowned Broadway Dance Center under the International Student Visa Program (ISVP). His talent and dedication were quickly recognized, earning him accolades and sponsorships from various performing arts companies.
Promoting Tap Dance in India
Returning to India in 2021, Gosavi embarked on a mission to promote tap dance in his homeland. Despite its niche status, Gosavi has tirelessly worked to elevate tap dance through workshops, collaborations, and performances. His unique blend of tap dancing with other Indian dance forms like bhangra and kathak has garnered attention and appreciation.
World Championship Journey
Gosavi’s journey to the World Tap Dance Championship began with his stellar performance at an Asia-level dance championship in South Korea, organized by IDO. Under the guidance of Mike Glenney, Gosavi is currently honing his skills for the upcoming championship in Prague, where he will compete against representatives from nearly 40 countries.
Community Support and Challenges
Despite his achievements, Gosavi acknowledges the challenges of promoting tap dance in India, particularly among the youth. However, he remains steadfast in his belief in the authenticity and artistry of tap dance, emphasizing its cultural significance and benefits.
As Gosavi continues to inspire and captivate audiences with his electrifying performances, his journey stands as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and artistic innovation.
