Abhijeet Sawant: In Step

Indian Idol 1 winner Abhijeet Sawant who’s put on his dancing shoes for Nach Baliye 4 talks about dance, music and competition

Why this sudden transition from singing to dancing?
Nach...is not something that will change my career. It will give me something different to do. It’s not about competition or about highest marks or about performing well. I took it up to just enjoy and it was once in a lifetime opportunity. It feels good to be a part of such a big show.

How easy was it convincing your partner?
When they called us for the first time, even I was unsure because both of us are non-dancers and she is a very camera-conscious person. We had problems and she also did not agree to appear on Nach. So I refused then. But after that we realised that both of us should have given it a shot. We were fortunate enough that they called us up again. Without giving it a thought, we agreed yes this time just to have a little bit of fun.

Does dancing come easily to you?
No, it is difficult. We have absolutely no background in dancing but our choreographers are trying to make us dance. We are also trying our level best. It took us two days to just get into the groove but we are improving.

Who is a better dancer, Shilpa or you?
I guess Shilpa is a better dancer than me. But she is extremely camera-shy, so that is a problem. But as we proceed, I am sure she will shed her inhibitions and perform better.

How many hours do rehearse everyday?
We rehearse everyday for four hours at least. It gets difficult for me because I have to juggle dancing with my other commitments. So I have to compromise on my sleep.

Who according to you is the best couple in Nach...?
Shaleen and Daljeet are very good dancers. They complement each other very well. But this is just the beginning and I am waiting to see the others put up a good show.

How would you rate yourself as a dancer on a scale of 1 to 10?
It is too early to assess my dancing ability. But even then I guess I shall give myself a 7 on 10.

What do you enjoy more- singing or dancing?
I always enjoy singing because that is my profession. Yeah, dancing is something different and have always enjoyed experimenting with new things. I was a radio jockey for a while and now I am experimenting with acting.

t is happening with your debut film Lottery?
It is almost complete. It will release in December. We are waiting for a proper date to release the film. I am not a big star to demand a big role so I am happy with the way my film has shaped up because I always wanted to do such a role. There are no over-the-top performances and this is how I wanted my first film to be.

Who are your toughest competitors?
I have done two reality shows before this and have never thought about competition. I am my own competitor. Everybody is good and I am here to just do my job.

What next after your film?
My career has shaped up very well. Very few people have reached where I am today. Two of my albums have released and one film is up for release. What else can I ask from God! I feel blessed!