How One Dancer's Global Journey Is Redefining College Choreography

Julia Wagner · 2026-06-07

When you think of college dance teams, what comes to mind? Matching outfits, high-energy routines, and maybe a few too many hours spent in the gym. But every once in a while, someone walks in and changes the game entirely. That's exactly what's happening at UCLA, where choreographer and dancer Mahek Jindani is bringing a fresh, international flavor to the Bruin dance scene. And honestly, it's about time. ### A World of Movement in One Routine Jindani didn't grow up in a single dance bubble. Her training spans multiple styles, from classical Indian forms to contemporary Western techniques. That blend isn't just a party trick—it's a whole new vocabulary. When she choreographs, she's not just counting beats. She's weaving together stories that cross borders. Think about it like this: most routines you see on a college stage pull from one or two traditions. You get your jazz hands here, your hip-hop swagger there. But Jindani layers in the intricate hand gestures of Bharatanatyam with the sharp, grounded footwork of modern dance. The result? Something that feels both ancient and brand new. It's the kind of fusion that makes you lean forward in your seat, not because you're confused, but because you're captivated. ### Why Cross-Cultural Choreography Matters Now Here's the thing—dance has always been a language. But in a world that's more connected than ever, the most compelling art is the kind that speaks in multiple dialects. For dance studios and choreographers across the United States, Jindani's approach is a masterclass in standing out. Let's break down what makes her style so effective: - **Storytelling over spectacle**: Every movement has a purpose, not just a flashy finish. - **Technical rigor**: She demands precision, but she never sacrifices emotion for perfection. - **Adaptability**: She can take a classical motif and make it work over a modern beat without it feeling forced. That last point is huge. A lot of choreographers try to mix styles and end up with a mess that pleases no one. Jindani makes it look effortless because she respects the roots of each form. She's not just borrowing steps; she's honoring their origins. ### What Studio Owners Can Learn From This If you run a dance studio or teach classes, you might be wondering: how does this apply to my students? Here's the honest answer—more than you'd think. Students today are hungry for authenticity. They've seen every TikTok trend and every Broadway number. What they haven't seen is a routine that tells a story from a perspective they've never encountered. By introducing international elements into your curriculum, you're not just teaching steps. You're opening a window to a wider world. Plus, there's a practical side. In a competitive market, differentiation is everything. A studio that offers something unique—say, a fusion class that blends Latin and African rhythms—is going to draw attention. Parents want their kids to be well-rounded. Adult students want to feel challenged. Jindani's example shows that you can be both accessible and deeply artistic. ### The Bruin Effect: A Case Study in Fresh Energy Back at UCLA, the impact is already visible. The dance community there is buzzing, not just about the routines, but about the conversations they spark. Students are asking questions about the cultural contexts behind the movements. They're researching, they're engaging, and they're pushing each other to be better. That's the ripple effect of good choreography. It doesn't just fill a stage; it fills a room with ideas. For anyone involved in dance education, that's the gold standard. You want your students to leave class not just tired, but inspired. So whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, take a page from Jindani's book. Look beyond the familiar. Find the rhythm in the unexpected. And remember—the best dance isn't just seen. It's felt. And when you bring the whole world into your movement, there's no limit to what you can say.