ROOTED by the UNIVERSE
We are shaped by love, strengthened by community, and connected through the universal bonds that define us. (Click on images for the videos)
Guru Shishya
This piece highlights the long standing teacher-pupil relationship, showing the classroom basics of taatkar (footwork), hasthakas (arm movements), and chakras (spins) with live instruments before transitioning to Alisha’s first performance with her Guru.
Vishnu Stoti
This piece highlights Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu triumvirate, known for his strength, charm, and occasional vanity. It is performed in the rare pattern of Dhamaar Taal (a 14-beat cycle) and is considered one of the most difficult technical pieces in Kathak. Alisha performs alongside her Kathak classmates.
Chaaturaang
This dance highlights the many artistic talents of Lord Krishna—his flute, drumming, and graceful movement—while honoring his role as the god of protection and love. Through expressive choreography and advanced tukras, the piece conveys deep devotion and admiration for Krishna.
Shiva
This powerful Shiva Tandav showcases the fierce and divine energy of Lord Shiva, the God of Dance and Destruction, through intricate Kathak rhythms and vivid storytelling. The piece captures Shiva’s many forms, from serene meditation to dynamic dance. Composed by Guru Divyang Vakil.
Alisha's
Rangmanch
ROOTS of DANCE
Her Journey
Alisha didn’t stumble upon dance—it has been part of her life since the very beginning. From her earliest memories, dance has been her home, her language, and her joy. Starting Bollywood dance at the age of 3, she soon felt drawn to the discipline and depth of Indian classical dance. At just 6 years old, she began training in Kuchipudi, and by the age of 9, she discovered her true calling in Kathak.
Alisha has been trained under Guru Sheila Oak Maggin Ji in the Lucknow gharana. Under her guidance, Alisha’s passion and artistry have continued to flourish. Kathak became more than just a dance form to her—it became a way of life. Whether it was the intricate footwork, the graceful expressions, or the storytelling woven into every movement, Kathak gave Alisha a space to lose herself in rhythm and find herself in art.
Over the years, Alisha has grown from a young student at Rhythmaya Dance to becoming a teacher at the very same school that nurtured her journey. Teaching has given her the opportunity to pass on not only the technical foundations of Kathak but also the joy, discipline, and love she carries for the art form.
For Alisha, dance is not simply a performance or practice—it is a lifelong passion. She hopes to continue teaching, learning, and dancing for as long as she can, keeping alive both the tradition and the personal joy it has given her for so many years.
For me, dance has always been more than just performance—it is a way to connect, heal, and celebrate. Every stage, every audience, and every beat has given me the chance to share joy, build community, and honor culture. Dance allows me to express who I am while also creating moments that bring people together in meaningful ways.
The Transformative Power of Dance
🌟 Bringing Joy & Healing
Performed at Children’s Hospital, homeless shelters, and senior citizens’ homes to spread smiles and comfort.
Taught dance as a form of artistic therapy, strengthening both body and mind.
🌍 Showcasing Culture & Diversity
Shared the beauty of Indian culture at sporting events, libraries & festivals.
Took part in the first-ever International Diwali showcase at Disney World, celebrating culture on a global stage.
💜 Community Impact & Fundraising
Created unique fundraisers like the Diwali mock wedding, blending joy, tradition, and service.
Used performances to raise both awareness and support for causes that matter.
🎶 Global Unity & Celebration
Dance Intern at the World Culture Festival in Washington, D.C., joining artists from around the world to celebrate unity
Her Guru
Together with her partner Nirathi Rao, Sheila Oak has transformed Rhythmaya from a small dance school into a thriving dance company. By building a franchise in Maryland and creating a specialized Kathak curriculum, she has made classical dance accessible and engaging for students across the DC Metro area. A native of Northern Virginia, Sheila Oak Maggin has extensive training in multiple dance styles. She completed her Raangmunch Pravesh in Kathak in 2002 under the guidance of Guru Asha Vattikuti and has also studied Bollywood, Hip Hop, Ballet, Jazz, Belly Dance, and Middle Eastern Tribal dance. Drawing on this broad foundation, Sheila is known for her inventive choreography and ability to infuse fresh, dynamic projects into Rhythmaya’s repertoire. Whenever the team seeks new inspiration, Sheila is the one they turn to. Beyond dance, Sheila leads a full-time career in Finance and Securitization. She resides in Maryland with her husband, Daniel, and their two young sons. Known for her warmth, charisma, and boundless energy, Sheila is often described as the “life of the party.” Her identity also plays a central role in her life, as she proudly embraces her Punjabi and Marathi roots along with the “Hinjew” culture she has embraced through marriage.
About Alisha
Alisha is a senior at Winston Churchill High School who has loved to dance for as long as she can remember. She began her journey in Indian classical dance with Kuchipudi before transitioning to Kathak at the age of 9. In addition to her Kathak training, Alisha has spent years performing Bollywood and has proudly served as a dance teacher at Rhythmaya for the past few years.
Beyond dance, Alisha is a passionate and engaged student. She competes on both the Debate and Model United Nations team, where she has had the opportunity to compete at tournaments across the country. She is deeply involved in SAYVA, a student-led community service organization, where she contributes to meaningful volunteer initiatives. Alisha has also played on her school’s basketball and varsity flag football teams, bringing energy, focus, and teamwork to every part of her life.
In addition, she is passionate about cooking, science, and travel—interests that fuel her curiosity and creativity beyond the classroom and stage.
She is incredibly grateful to her entire community for their endless love and support. She thanks her family, friends, mentors, and everyone who has been a part of her journey.
