It's no news that dancers have been slightly looked down upon for reasons both logical and illogical. Some people think dancers are stuck-up and aimless. Add to that a bunch of ridiculous questions and we have the perfect stereotype. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions dancers have come across.

1.     So, are you a professional dancer or what?
Ans: I've trained for years; you could say I am.

2.     Do you get paid for it?
Ans: Per show, yes.

3.     How much?
Ans: How much do YOU get paid for tutoring Chemistry when you barely know what CO is?

4.     Aren't you worried that once you quit dancing, you're going to gain a lot of weight?
Ans: Who're you? MY MOM??

5.     Are you worried you won't be able to excel in your field since it's a niche market?
 Ans: I have put in a lot of time and effort into dancing. 

Whether it was hours in a parking lot or money to take classes, I've happily made sacrifices for it. Although you can say that the rewards are immediate and fleeting, there are many lasting things I've taken from dance.

For one, I'm confident. My introverted nature blossomed to a point where I'm comfortable being myself in otherwise anxiety-evoking situations.

Secondly, I've met people who have moved me, inspired me. At the risk of sounding dramatic, having a passion and a family that supports it can do WONDERS for your soul. 

Thirdly, aside from the more internal effects, so many dancers emerge with other skills that are related to dance. Cinematography? Event planning? WRITING ARTICLES?? Maybe dancing itself isn't the destination, but relevant experiences can definitely be the vehicle to take you places professionally, or just help you grow as a well-rounded person. 

6.     Why are you dancing? "Kono holud-e nachbe?"
Ans: Dancing doesn't necessarily have to mean I'm practising for a holud; just like you practise each day and hope to get better at playing the guitar, I need to practise as well.
Also, it's my cousin's wedding…

7.     You're so amazing! Can you dance at my sister's holud?
Ans: I… don't even know you. No.

8.     Why do you post dance videos? They seem like you're seeking attention.
Ans: It's a form of paying tribute to my art. It's perfectly alright to recognise your skills to promote yourself. 
And damn straight, I'm seeking attention. Can you do 72 pirouettes in a minute?

9.     How do you concentrate on your education with frequent rehearsals, and for what?
Ans: I manage to balance my schedule and give equal time to both my education and dance. To answer the latter part of your question, I do it because it motivates me. It's a blessing to find something you're actually good at. Being torn down by negative remarks at every step of the way makes me want to prove people wrong even more.

10.     Are all dancers clique–y?
Ans: HUGS FOR EVERYONE!

Maisha Maliha speaks what crosses her mind in the most positive way but is often misinterpreted and thought to be a lunatic. Unfollow her at www.facebook.com/MyshoeMaliha