Looking at their bubbly exuberance and happy demeanor, it is difficult to believe that life has been a roller coaster ride for Neha (30) and Raksha Bhosle (21), the two dynamic Zumba instructors. Having lost their father at a very young age, life temporarily came to a standstill for the sisters and their mother. However, adhering to the motto ‘Not to give up under any circu-mstances’ the sisters defied all the obstacles that came on the way and put up a brave front. “I was barely 19 and Raksha just nine year old when we lost our father. We are three sisters, Raksha being the youngest and me the eldest. It was a difficult period. My mother, who is a home maker, however, put up a brave front and encouraged the three of us to pursue our dreams,” recalls Neha.
“Couple of years after my father passed away, things were pretty bad. There were financial constraints as we all were studying. Situation became better as I started working. With God’s grace, I got a good job and did quite well,” recalls Neha.
After completing her graduation, Neha started working and joined a telecom company. Simultaneously she also pursued an MBA degree in marketing and went to Dubai where she joined an event company.
However, Neha always had a passion for dancing. “While in Dubai, I joined a Zumba class and was greatly fascinated by this dance form,” says Neha. She completed a certification course in Zumba and belly dancing and decided to start Zumba classes in Navi Mumbai.
“This was a challenging as well as risky decision. But, with the encouragement of my mom and sisters, I started Zumba classes. Competition was stiff as there were many such classes in the vicinity but I strongly believe that if we do not give up, we are bound to reach our destined goal,” says Neha.
And despite competition, Neha’s Zumba classes started gaining popularity. “Today, it is so satisfying to see women and men of all age groups joining and enjoying the dance workouts,” says Neha.
Raksha, who also had a passion for dancing, did a certification course too in Zumba and started taking few batches while pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in mass media as well. “It does become slightly tough during exams to take the hourly class, but I am able to manage both,” says Raksha with the confidence.
Both the sisters have become a source of inspiration for many youngsters and are known for their grit and determination. “The temptation to give up is very common and nobody is exempt. However, it is the will to continue and defy obstacles that is the key to success,” say both sisters with a smile.