On International Dance Day, stories that celebrate the enduring spirit of passion take centre stage. In a world where demanding professions often leave little room for creative expression, there are individuals who continue to nurture both—with grace, discipline, and unwavering dedication.
One such inspiring journey is that of Dr. Leena Dave, a senior cataract and phaco surgeon at Tara Netralaya, who has performed over 30,000 successful cataract surgeries. Alongside her distinguished medical career, she is also a trained Kathak dancer, having earned her Visharad from Bhatkhande Sangeet School, Lucknow.
Her story is not just about balance—it is about rediscovery, resilience, and the belief that passion has no age. On this occasion, she shares her journey with Kanan Rathore, the one of living between the precision of surgery and the rhythm of dance.
Q1. Let’s begin at the start—when did dance first become a part of your life, and what initially drew you towards it?
Dance has been with me since my nursery school days. I still remember a time when we didn’t even have a television at home, and after dinner, I would perform in front of my family. Those little moments of joy and expression were where it all began.
Q2. Looking back, how would you describe your journey—from your early days as a dancer to becoming a doctor who continues to stay connected to it?
Dance was always a constant. I participated in it every year during school, and even in medical college, I continued performing—both solo and in groups. At the same time, becoming a doctor was my childhood dream, and by God’s grace, I was able to fulfill that.
It was during the COVID period, however, that I truly paused and realised the importance of focusing on my passion as a dancer again.
Q3. Medicine and dance are such contrasting worlds—how have these two identities shaped you?
At the age of 48, I formally started learning Kathak. That phase was transformative. Learning dance at that stage of life helped me deal with professional stress in a much better way.
Both fields may seem different, but they have shaped me into a more balanced and composed person.
Q4. In the middle of a demanding medical routine, what does dance mean to you today?
Dancing is, and always has been, a form of therapy for me. It not only helps me relax mentally but has also added a certain grace to my personality.
Q5. Has being a dancer influenced the way you approach your work as a doctor?
Yes, definitely. Dance has taught me to stay calm and composed. I don’t react impulsively, and that sense of balance reflects in my professional life as well.
Q6. Was there ever a time when balancing both felt difficult or when you thought of stepping away from dance?
Balancing was never really a problem, but due to some health issues, I did consider stepping away from dance for a while.
However, during that time, I realised even more deeply that dancing is essential for my mental well-being—it is truly my therapy.
Q7. How has your journey with dance evolved in recent years?
I completed my Visharad in Kathak at the age of 52, which was a very fulfilling milestone. Now, I am more focused on performing semi-classical dance and continuing to grow in this art form.
Q8. What have these parallel journeys in medicine and dance given you personally?
Both performing surgeries and dancing bring me immense happiness and satisfaction. Whether it is appreciation from patients or from people who watch my dance, those moments are deeply fulfilling.
Q9. What would you like to say to young people who feel they must choose between a stable profession and their passion?
Since I started learning dance formally a bit later in life, I would always advise young people to develop a passion or hobby alongside their profession. It definitely enhances your performance in every aspect of life.
Dr. Leena Dave’s journey beautifully captures the essence of International Dance Day—not just as a celebration of movement, but as a reminder that passion knows no age and no boundaries.
Even within the most demanding professions, there is always space to nurture what truly moves you.
Her story gently challenges the idea that one must choose between responsibility and passion. Instead, it shows that with courage, consistency, and a willingness to begin—at any stage of life—it is possible to embrace both. Whether it is dance or any other calling, it is never too early or too late to start. What matters is the decision to begin, and the courage to keep going.