Sailendra Samantaray

“Every teen craves for some positive attention. Everybody wants to be known for what they’re good at, everybody craves that appreciation at this age, everybody wants people to know them. When people begin to see you, you can influence a lot of them. They hear you out; they respect your opinions.  When you’re in a crowded room, you automatically stand out from the rest of the crowd. 

My career in dance started from Dance India Dance (DID) Li'l Masters in 2010. I had started my training just a year before. This was when my infatuation towards dance heightened. Dance is my passion. It means peace to me. I’d love to make my way into the industry as soon as I graduate. I have been working on album songs and movie scripts now, as well.

It has been a smooth ride. I wouldn’t say I’ve had “difficulties” because that has always been my favorite part. From having nothing to working hard each day to finally getting some recognition, that overwhelms me immensely.

I am a meme-lover. Earlier I could share on social media whatever I liked but now very often than not, it might turn into an issue. People start judging you, they call you anti-communalist, they form opinions how I am influencing my audience in a negative manner. They don’t take things in a light hearted way. It’s almost like you’ve lost your social life. We have to be more careful.

My friends don’t hype me up though; we are still the same as we used to be and I really love that. I am the younger one in my family so obviously the most pampered one too. My parents have always been so supportive of my choices but they’re particular about one thing- your education should be your first priority. 

To speak of events- I have never been a wardrobe-oriented person. Earlier I could go out even in my pajamas but these days, I have to carry myself well even when I step out for a plate of Dahibara Aloodum. There was this one time when I went to have some boiled eggs in my neighborhood. I was wearing a tee which had a slight hole near my left shoulder. Suddenly some people gathered around me and came forward wanting a selfie. They had their hands on my shoulder and all this while when  I was smiling for the picture, I couldn’t stop thinking about the tear in my tee.. (laughs) This was when my second album had aired so it was all new to me. But now I absolutely adore my fans!

There was this other time when I had been to a college for a shoot. 3-4 girls walked up to me with roses and chocolates. They were in tears seeing me. They hugged me and started crying. It was such an emotional moment. There, at that point, I understood how much fandom can mean and how impactful an individual can be.

When I was younger, even I used to get super excited when I saw a TV star or anything and now being there at that position, it feels good- all the love and support that the audience has to give and I consider myself truly blessed!”

-Sailendra Samantaray