Vishakha Verma has redefined classical dance as a tool for empowerment and inclusion. Through her institute, she has transformed the lives of over 170 special needs children worldwide. Her dedication has earned her prestigious recognition, including the Global Disability Award from the Indian government, and her work has been celebrated on platforms like Zee TV and Sony TV.

Vishakha Verma, the Founder- Director of Vishakha’s Dance and Music Training Institute in Dubai, is a passionate Dance Therapist who has built a haven for Inclusive Dance, fostering acceptance, confidence, and smiles among people of all abilities.

Vishakha’s institute serves over 170 children with special needs from all over the world, providing dance therapy and training that has transformed their lives. Many of her students have gained immense confidence, secured jobs, and found empowerment through dance.

Her institute also welcomes women from all walks of life—grandmothers, mothers, and even those who may have set aside their passions for family responsibilities. Through her resilience and dedication, Vishakha has not only preserved the rich heritage of Kathak but has also redefined its role in empowering individuals and creating a more inclusive society.

Seventeen years ago, Vishakha Verma moved to Dubai with her husband after his job transfer. Upon arriving, she noticed a lack of recognition for Kathak as compared to Bharatanatyam, which was more prevalent in the region. However, a pivotal moment came when she was invited to a show featuring children with autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, and other special needs.

Watching those children perform deeply moved her. She realized that her years of teaching dance had only scratched the surface of what it meant to be a teacher. She envisioned a school that would embrace every kind of ability, and from that vision, Vishakha’s Dance and Music Training Institute was born.

Verma recalls a pivotal moment in her journey as the founder of Vishakha’s Dance & Music Training Institute. Just before the school’s inauguration, she met a girl with cerebral palsy—a young student confined to a wheelchair with stiff limbs, unable to move freely. The girl approached Vishakha with a heartfelt request: “Will you teach me dance?” Despite her initial hesitation, Vishakha agreed. What followed was nine months of relentless effort, patience, and determination. Together, they worked tirelessly, transforming impossibility into achievement.

The culmination of their journey was a poignant moment during the school’s inauguration. Dressed in a red sari, Vishakha performed alongside her student, who wore a red Anarkali. Together, they danced to "Kanha So Ja Jara," creating a performance that was both a testament to the power of determination and a symbol of hope. This event, captured in a video shared on social media, marked the first time the girl had ever performed, breaking barriers that once seemed insurmountable. For Vishakha, this experience was transformative, reaffirming her mission to empower others through dance.

Vishakha Verma’s journey took an extraordinary turn about five years ago when a major accident almost shattered her dreams. Her right leg was severely injured, and doctors expressed doubts about her ability to walk again. The prognosis was grim: walking seemed like a distant possibility, and dancing was entirely out of the question. For nine months, Vishakha was confined to bed rest, consumed by fears of whether she would ever regain her mobility. Yet, amidst this period of uncertainty and pain, she found solace and strength in her family and children, whose unwavering support became her anchor.

Despite the physical and emotional toll, Vishakha’s indomitable spirit refused to be extinguished. She resolved to rise above her circumstances, waking up every morning with renewed determination to face the day’s challenges. Slowly but surely, she regained her ability to walk, defying all odds. This triumph marked the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with resilience, hope, and the unshakeable belief that obstacles could be overcome with perseverance.

Vishakha Verma’s journey took another extraordinary turn when she received a call from the Indian government about an award recognizing her work with special children. At first, Vishakha couldn’t believe it. “I am just a normal dance teacher,” she thought. Convinced it was a prank, she dismissed the call, even hanging up multiple times. Days later, an official email arrived on the government’s letterhead. Yet, her skepticism lingered. “No, this must be a joke,” she thought. She ignored further calls until the government officials reached out to her husband, explaining the situation.

Her husband, stunned by her reaction, confronted her. “What are you doing? Why aren’t you answering these calls? This is serious!” Only then did it begin to sink in: she was genuinely being recognized for her work. On Republic Day, Vishakha Verma was honored with the Global Disability Award in India. The ceremony was even more meaningful because her parents accepted the award on her behalf. For her, this was not just an achievement; it was a profound moment of validation, a "double miracle" where her parents, who had supported her throughout, stood proudly on her behalf.

This recognition wasn’t her only acknowledgement. Over the years, Vishakha’s work has been featured in several newspapers and on platforms like Zee TV and Sony TV. Each feature bolstered her belief that she was on the right path, giving her the encouragement to continue her mission. “It feels amazing to know your work is being appreciated. It means you are heading in the right direction,” she says.

Born in Delhi, Vishakha Verma grew up in a household that valued education and service. Her father served in the NSG, and her mother, a government school teacher, was a scholar in Sanskrit. Vishakha, along with her brother and sister, completed her schooling in Delhi before moving to Aurangabad to pursue Civil Engineering.

Kathak entered Vishakha Verma’s life during her school days when she auditioned for and was selected to train at a Kathak institute. Little did she know that this classical dance form would become her lifelong passion and a medium of transformation for so many.

Vishakha says, for seven to eight years, Kathak became as integral to her life as Krishna’s flute to Krishna—a deep, inseparable connection. Today, as a dance therapist, Vishakha uses Kathak to reach and inspire children with special abilities, ensuring that even those who thought Kathak was out of their reach can embrace its beauty.

A cherished memory from her childhood speaks of the pride and joy of her parents when they received the letter confirming her selection for Kathak training at Mandi House. That moment of celebration, pride, and familial support ignited her lifelong journey in classical dance.

Vishakha Verma candidly recalls the challenges she faced when pursuing dance 40 years ago. In those days, dance was not celebrated or seen as a viable profession. Unlike today’s world of popular dance shows and choreographers who are celebrated as artists, dance back then was looked down upon. Even her parents, like many, were initially concerned about the stigma associated with dance as a career.

While society celebrated traditional professions like engineering or medicine, the art of dance, especially Kathak, was met with skepticism and judgment. People around her questioned how a Kathak dancer would find her place in society, particularly when it came to marriage. The concerns were clear: who would marry a dancer? These societal expectations forced Vishakha to momentarily step away from Kathak and pursue engineering, a decision driven by her father’s insistence that she secure a “respectable” degree.

Although she completed her engineering degree, Vishakha’s heart always longed for her anklets. The moment she graduated, she eagerly asked for them back. However, life had other plans. Her parents reminded her that it was now time for marriage, and her anklets remained tucked away. It wasn’t until she moved to her in-laws’ home that she finally reunited with her passion. Her husband and in-laws became her greatest supporters, encouraging her to continue learning and pursuing Kathak.

Marriage brought new challenges, as it often does. Children entered her life, adding responsibilities that demanded her attention. Despite those challenges, Vishakha refused to let go of her dreams. She balanced her roles as a wife, mother, and dancer, always keeping her love for Kathak alive. As her children grew older—her son is now 27 and her daughter 21—Vishakha found opportunities to revisit her passion. She began teaching and learning dance again, reigniting the spark that had once been dimmed by societal expectations and family obligations.

When Vishakha Verma moved to Dubai with her husband, the transition was not easy. The initial years were filled with uncertainty. She was searching for a job, unsure of where to begin. Opening her own institute required significant investment, something that wasn’t feasible at the time. Undeterred, Vishakha took up a role as a dance teacher and coordinator at a local dance school. This marked the beginning of her inclusive classes, which she conducted in the evenings.

Her commitment to inclusivity led her to work with special children at a dedicated school, where she taught once a week free of charge. These classes were transformative, not just for the children but also for Vishakha herself. To deepen her understanding, she pursued courses in dance movement therapy and studied child, human, and women’s psychology. This period of learning coincided with her children’s growth, and she had to balance her personal responsibilities with her professional aspirations.

The turning point came when her daughter reached grade 12. Verma realized she could now devote herself entirely to her passion. With determination and a heart full of hope, she launched Vishakha’s Dance & Music Training Institute. The journey was far from easy. Many doubted her vision, advising her to take up a more stable career, like a 9-to-5 job. They questioned why she would exhaust herself running from one place to another, juggling teaching, studying, and managing her household.

The strain began to take a toll on her health, but Vishakha’s resolve remained unshaken. She knew her calling lay in creating a space where dance could transform lives, especially for those with special needs.

Every day, Vishakha Verma draws inspiration from her students, particularly those with special needs. Their sheer determination, even in the face of immense challenges, serves as a constant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. She recounts how some of her students, who struggle with basic tasks like getting out of bed or holding a phone, embody courage and perseverance that puts everyday struggles into perspective. For these children, even small victories require monumental effort—yet they never give up. Vishakha’s role as their mentor goes beyond teaching dance; it’s about fostering their confidence and nurturing their potential.

Through her journey, Vishakha has learned profound lessons about the power of resilience, compassion, and belief. She emphasizes that challenges, no matter how daunting, can be overcome with determination. Her message is clear: never give up, never lose sight of your goals, and always strive to push beyond limitations. Vishakha’s story is a testament to the fact that with enough courage and persistence, even the most formidable obstacles can be turned into stepping stones for growth and success.

Vishakha Verma’s philosophy of success revolves around acceptance—accepting mistakes, flaws, and challenges and using them as stepping stones to move forward. “There is no problem without a solution,” she says, radiating confidence. Vishakha firmly believes that self-acceptance is the key to growth and resilience. She gives an example of how she embraces her own perceived flaws. “I am 5 feet tall, so I wear 5-inch heels and stand at 5’5”. What’s wrong with that? The problem arises when we refuse to accept ourselves.”

Verma advises people to turn their mistakes into opportunities for self-improvement. “Make mistakes, but don’t fear them. When you make a mistake, go home and write it down. Reflect on it. After a month, see which mistakes you’re repeating. The ones you don’t repeat are your stepping stones; the ones you do repeat are lessons to learn from.”

Her greatest inspiration is her mother, a remarkable woman whom she describes as the embodiment of strength and grace. Her mother, a double MA and Sanskrit scholar, entered a large family after marriage, shouldering countless responsibilities with poise. Even in the face of difficulties, Vishakha’s mother maintained a calm and positive outlook, always offering solutions rather than lamenting. “She raised us beautifully, did her job, and moved through life with a smile. Even when she cried, she would first solve the problem. That’s the kind of person she is,” Vishakha shares.

Her mother’s resilience and problem-solving mindset have left a profound impact on Vishakha’s own approach to life. “She never believes in giving up,” Vishakha says, marveling at her mother’s ability to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges. “If you tell her you’re tired, she’ll say, ‘Sit down, have some sugar, and then get up again.’” This unwavering determination has been a guiding light for Vishakha.

Vishakha Verma also draws daily inspiration from her children, who are currently studying in the United States. Though they are miles apart, their encouragement fuels her drive. “Mom, you can do it. You have to do it. You cannot give up,” they tell her during their conversations. Their faith in her abilities propels her forward, much like the support she received from her mother.

For Vishakha, her family—her mother, son, and daughter—are the "lions" behind her, empowering her to wake up each day and face life with courage and determination. Whether through their words of encouragement or the examples they set, they continue to inspire her to keep pushing her boundaries and to pursue her mission with passion and grace.

Through it all, Vishakha remains deeply grounded. Her journey, marked by triumphs and challenges alike, stands as a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of self-belief, and the transformative impact of dedication and love. For her, every recognition, every moment of success, is not just an individual achievement but a collective victory shared with her students, family, and the countless people who have supported and inspired her along the way.

Vishakha Verma's approach to life and free time reflects the deep balance she has cultivated between her responsibilities and her inner peace. In her rare moments of downtime, Vishakha treasures the simplicity of connecting with her family. She often disconnects from the digital world, switches off her phone, and spends meaningful time with her close-knit circle of loved ones. Her family and a handful of trusted friends form a support system where she discovers opportunities for personal and professional growth. Discussions within this circle are not just casual—they are a chance for reflection, brainstorming, and finding ways to improve her work and enhance her personality.

Yet, her true sanctuary lies in dancing—an act that is both her escape and her ultimate expression. In her free time, Vishakha dances for herself, finding solace and joy in the rhythm of her favorite songs. Whether it's the timeless melodies of Kishore Kumar, the soul-stirring voice of Lata Mangeshkar, or the evergreen charm of Asha Bhosle, each tune becomes her companion. Her dance knows no boundaries—it happens in her bedroom, on the sofa, while seated in a car, or wherever she feels the music calling her. This personal connection to dance serves as her ultimate rewind, a sacred moment of "me time" that rejuvenates her spirit and keeps her grounded.

For Vishakha Verma, happiness is not defined by material possessions. While she acknowledges the convenience and joy money can bring—buying a favorite meal, a luxury car, or branded clothing—she emphasizes that these are fleeting sources of satisfaction. True happiness, she believes, comes from inner peace. It is not about how busy or fulfilled you appear during the day, but about how content and calm you feel when you rest your head at night.

She challenges the popular notion that external achievements or possessions can guarantee happiness. Instead, she underscores the importance of being at peace with oneself. She often reflects on the need to align one's work with passion. If a career or task does not bring joy, Vishakha suggests that the solution lies not in abandoning the passion but in re-evaluating one's approach to it. The transformation, she argues, begins with oneself. It's about changing the way you approach life rather than hopping from one goal to another.

Vishakha likens life to a rhythmic dance—when you find your rhythm, everything flows naturally. From the moment you wake up, sip your morning tea, practice yoga, step into the office, and go about your day, life can become a harmonious journey if approached with rhythm and balance. She believes that by syncing your actions with your inner rhythm, you can eliminate stress and approach life with grace and ease.

Her philosophy extends to the way she manages stress. According to Vishakha, stress disrupts this natural rhythm and creates disharmony, leading to anxiety and unease. The key, she says, is to embrace the rhythm of life, trust the process, and move forward with confidence. Her own life is a testament to this principle. Through dance, she has found her rhythm—a rhythm that guides her, energizes her, and keeps her smiling.

Vishakha Verma embodies this rhythm not just in her professional accomplishments but also in her personal life. Her confidence, positivity, and unshakable determination make her a beacon of inspiration for others. By advocating self-acceptance, aligning work with passion, and living life with purpose and balance, she sets an example of how to find fulfillment in both work and leisure.

For Vishakha, life is not just about achieving—it’s about living, dancing to your own beat, and finding joy in the everyday rhythm of existence.