Welcome to Aarti's Dance Academy
Unleashing the Magic of Bollywood Dance
Discover the enchanting world of Bollywood dance at Aarti’s Dance Academy, where rhythm meets expression, and tradition fuses with innovation. Located in the heart of Leicestershire, UK
About Aarti's Dance Academy
Experience dance with Aarti's passion and expertise
Embark on a captivating journey into the world of Bollywood dance at Aarti’s Dance Academy, situated in the heart of Leicestershire, UK. Our academy is a vibrant haven for dance enthusiasts seeking a harmonious fusion of cultural tradition and contemporary creativity.
Dance Instructor
Meet Aarti
Professional Teacher of Dance (UKA) and Professionally Trained Mindfulness Teacher
Welcome to my dancing journey. I’m Aarti and I love to dance, but more so, I love to teach dancing. I believe music is a gift and dancing to music is an art…the art is in the way you move.
Having grown up in a family who love Bollywood music, I was always surrounded by the latest Bollywood songs and my family always encouraged me to perform at various family functions. When we watched Bollywood films together, I would stand up every time a song came on, attempting to copy every move. I would then make my parents rewind the song so I could do it all over again. Their endless positive encouragement helped to grow in confidence to become the choreographer I am today.
My passion for dance is endless! I love being able to express the sense of freedom through music and movement. The ability to teach to children and adults alike has even more meaning to me. I love giving to the community and helping people to enjoy fitness through dance and music. The joy dancing brings to children and adults motivates and inspires me every day. The confidence that grows within them means more to me than words can express.
A recent enthusiasm I have occurred is for mindfulness. Through the pandemic, I quickly realised that mindfulness aided me to work through the day to day life of home schooling, working from home and being secluded from family and friends. A journey that we all had to live through. A journey that we had no choice or saying over. I found that a walk first thing in the morning, listening to positive affirmations and various podcasts, helped me endlessly in how my day went. I would wake up at dawn and set off for a good two hours. When I returned, I was ready for the unexpected, the unknown. My days ran smoother and I was soon practising mindfulness to my children throughout the day in various shapes and forms. This motivated me to educate myself further and qualify in Professional Training in Mindfulness for Children. Now, I currently teach at local nurseries and schools, offering mindfulness and linking it to dance. We start the sessions with mindfulness such as yoga, breathing techniques, positive affirmations, dealing with stress etc and then link it to a song and dance. I create all my own materials, often encouraging my children to help. Their ideas are always so inspiring, and they give honest feedback too!
Throughout the year, I partner up with my friend to run various events on the Indian festivals. We create family friendly workshops for children to do arts and crafts, learning about the festival and then a special dance session with myself. These are fun to organise and a delight to watch families come together to learn more about the Indian festivals.
I am able to choregraph dances for first dance routines, various functions and events and also run sessions at mendni/birthday and other parties or events.
I also teach weekly Bollywood classes to adults and children as well as working alongside Mind, encouraging adults to perform through BollyFit in various hubs across Leicester including Thurmaston, Syston and Loughborough.
My favourite time of year is during the summer where I run Bollywood Summer Dance Camps to children between the ages of 3-11 years. Throughout the week, they would learn various routines as well as doing arts and crafts, playing outside and taking part of mindfulness activities such as yoga. At the end of the week, they would showcase their performances to their parents, encouraging confidence and bravery, no matter their ability.
I hope you join my dance journey and enjoy the love for dancing as much as I do!
QUOTE
‘If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life’
-Marc Anthony.
Ready to Dance?
Dance Classes For Everyone
01
Kids Bollywood
Dance
At Aarti’s Dance Academy, our Kids Bollywood Dance Class is designed to introduce the magic of dance to the youngest members of our community. Led by experienced and enthusiastic instructors, this class is a vibrant blend of fun, creativity, and cultural exploration.
02
Adult Bollywood
Dance
Aarti’s Dance Academy invites adults to join our dynamic Adult Bollywood Dance Class, where the vibrant energy of Bollywood meets your individual style. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer, our classes are tailored to enhance your skills and immerse you in the world of Bollywood glamour.
03
Kids Summer
Camp
Throughout the week, they would learn various Bollywood Dance routines as well as doing arts and crafts, playing outside and taking part of mindfulness activities such as yoga. At the end of the week, they would showcase their performances to their parents, encouraging confidence and bravery, no matter their ability.
04
Bollywood dance
in a day workshops
During half term holidays, children engage in different dance routines whilst creating various arts and crafts. Whether you book your children for one, two or three days, they will enjoy in fun filled activities whilst learning the glamour of Bollywood dances.
The art is in the way
you move
At Aarti’s Dance Academy, we go beyond the steps; we create an immersive dance experience. Aarti’s expertise extends beyond being a skilled dancer – she is a dedicated teacher committed to nurturing talent and sharing the sheer joy of dance.
- Playful Learning
- Cultural Connection
- Inclusive Atmosphere
- Expressive Choreography
Bollywood
Dance Classes
EVERY MONDAY
Children (4-11 Years): 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Elizabeth Park Sports Centre, Checkland Rd, Thurmaston LE4 8FN.
Adults Bollywood Fitness: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Thurmaston Memorial Hall, 772 Melton Road, Thurmaston LE4 8ED.
EVERY TUESDAY
Children (4-11 Years): 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Barkby Village Hall, 19 Beeby Road, Barkby LE7 3QB
EVERY WEDNESDAY
Children (4-11 Years): 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Elizabeth Park Sports Centre, Checkland Rd, Thurmaston LE4 8FN.
EVERY THURSDAY
Mindfulness & dance Class for Home-Ed kids: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Syston community centre, School street, Syston, LE7 1HN
EVERY FRIDAY
Bolly-Twist for Parents/Carers & Toddlers: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM
Adults Bollywood Fitness: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Thurmaston Memorial Hall, 772 Melton Road, Thurmaston LE4 8ED.
Mindfulness and Dance Classes at Nurseries and Schools
Dance classes are opportunities for fun and exercise, however, the benefits of studying dance go much further that with Aarti’s Dance Academy!
Dance is a form of art which comes with many advantages and for all parents looking for benefits of a happy and healthy child. During my sessions, I add a twist to enhance and nurture the benefits for a happy and healthy child, both mentally and physically, by adding mindfulness.
During the pandemic, I started to look into Mindfulness amongst children. There were so many changes we were all going through and this drew my attention to how beneficial mindfulness and dance has on our wellbeing and mental health. As a result, I started researching and consequently I have recently qualified in Professional Training for Mindfulness in Children. A passion that is now growing endlessly!
Linking mindfulness with dance has so many benefits. In short, mindfulness means paying attention to something. It means slowing down to really notice what you are doing and taking your time. It helps children to focus and relax in an easy way.
A few examples of mindful activities I have put together and currently using:
- Positive affirmation memory card game – this is a visual game, matching different positive words with pictures.
- Emotions Jar – explaining the different emotions we as humans can experience and how best to handle them. Linking this to The Colour Monster Story.
- Listening to different tones, beats and volumes in music – using instruments.
- Balancing postures/yoga – using our bodies to link with nature.
- Kindness Jar - making wishes and sending them to the Kindness Kingdom.
- Discussing kindness using visual aid cards.
- And Many More...
Each session is carefully planned and created for children so that they can take away their own interpretation of mindfulness. Every session includes a dance session also, linked to whichever task we have achieved at the mindfulness class, leaving each child feeling happier and healthy.
I have previously taught at Willows Nursery, Angels Nursery, Parkview Nursery, Tangent Nursery, Kiddicare Nursery and am currently teaching at The Monsell Eyres Primary School, The Pochin School, Syston Day Nursery, Nurture Me Day Nursery, Cherry Tree Nursery and Scraptoft Day Nursery. I have also put together some various exciting Dance Flash Mobs for the Bishop Ellis School and Pochin School for Children’s Mental Health Week, The Queen’s Jubilee and The King’s Coronation. Recently, I provided 19 Diwali Dance sessions across various nurseries and schools teaching the children a Diwali Dance routine to aid celebrate the occasion.
What people say about me
Ladyjane Grey School and PTA
We wanted to say thank you for all the energy and creativity you've brought to our Bollywood Diwali dance classes at our school. Your passion for dance has made each class so enjoyable and memorable! Children had a great time and enjoyed every dance move!
Thank you for your effort enthusiasm, and for helping us! connect with the vibrant spirit of Diwali. You've not only taught us new moves but also shared a beautiful part of the culture, which
has truly enriched our experience
We're so grateful for your energy throughout the day and even during lunch time. We will carry these memories (and dance moves!) with us always!!
Rita
Aarti hope your and recovered after the mad week you’ve had.. just wanted to say a massive thank you from Bally and myself the girls had a great time and has learnt so much since the show they have been buzzing with excitement dancing around the house it’s amazing as to how much their confidence has grown.. kids have also been saying how lovely you are thank you again.. Bally, Rita, Neeya and Saiya xxx
Bijal
My daughter attended Aarti’s dance workshop, well what can I say, she absolutely loved it! Was sad that it had to come to an end. She finds it so difficult to get up in the morning but going to the dance workshop made her look forward to a new day. As a mum I was happy that this workshop was set up for children to enjoy, meet other children and develop in many ways. Not only was it dance, children had the chance to engage into other enjoyable activities. Great work Aarti Lakhani, waiting for the next one! My younger daughter is also interested now.
Reshma
Amazing dance academy Aarti has shown dedication and passion every step of the way empowering each and every child grow in so many areas
Priya
Aarti thanks so much for a fab week of dancing. Eva had a lovely time. At only 4 years old, she not only learnt all the dance moves which you taught all the children but also developed confidence to perform her first ever performance in front of an audience! This is thanks to your Bollywood dance workshop! You and Kay did a fantastic job looking after all them kiddies at all age ranges!! Looking forward to the next workshop! Thanks again Aarti xxx
Sunny
An amazing week !! Full of fun, laughter and hard work. The boys were apprehensive about attending, but after the very first day with Aarti, both boys had a skip in their step and a dance routine to share. They were enthusiastic and excited about going back the next day. They thoroughly enjoyed the whole week and we as parents were taken back by the childrens performance
Sonal
Very well organised and professionally run dance class. My daughter enjoyed the class a lot and improved her confidence. Definitely recommend and will rejoin when the next class is run. Esha can't wait!
Thank you to the wonderful Aarti and Kay for a very enjoyable week
Well done to all the little dancers - great performance! X
Meeta
My daughter thoroughly enjoyed the week with Aarti, she learned a lot in just 5 days so credit to you Aarti. My daughter is already looking forward to attending your next dance workshop!!
Sarita
Anaya & Reisha are still practising their moves & showcasing their work to whoever comes round or wherever they go. I’ve never seen them this excited or so confident, especially Reisha.
Aarti & Kay you’ve done a fantastic job in such a short space of time. To get some many routines learnt & then performed in front of an audience when the age range was 4-11 is amazing! Well done to both of you. It’s clear to see the hard work paid off... were all waiting for details of the next one.
Priya
Thanks for a great dance workshop once again Aarti Lakhani. Eva’s attended 2 years in a row and she’s loved it both years. She loves to dance and has become more confident over the years! She’s been inspired by your class and all the new dance moves she’s learnt has been memorable. Thanks again! Xx
Bijal
To say I’m just impressed would be an understatement. I’m doubly impressed. It was big step for us that our younger daughter got the courage to stand up in front of a group of parents and dance. She had been to a dance group in London and came back with negativity. I wanted her to see that dancing is fun and this is exactly what Aarti did. Thank you to you and the team. My eldest came last year and enjoyed it even more. She has really developed through your inspiration. Thank you from both of us. Reserve 2 places next year! Aarti’s dance academy rocks!
Sital
I joined Aarti’s Dance Academy as a great start for my fitness journey for 2024!!! I was a bit nervous to begin with but Aarti is a fantastic teacher who makes me feel confident about dancing 💃 I really look forward to Thursday evenings the energy and enthusiasm in every class are just brilliant X
Thanks Aarti as you are so passionate about dance and it’s so good for me to have my me time at your class definitely recommend Bollyfit Classes with Aartis Dance Academy thank you 🙏🏽 💃
Tina Mcbrien
On Saturday 29th March we held a huge Gala/Fundraiser to raise money from the Air Ambulance service at The Secret Garden Leicester Glenfield Hospital and we had the pleasure to welcome Aartis dance academy to our Fundraiser, they brought colour and culture to the event and had a big audience. I love the Bollywood songs and dances and I was not
disappointed, Aarti was lovely and the dancers was amazing. Thank you to you all. - Tina Mcbrien on behalf of The Air Ambulance Service.
Mira
We couldn't be more grateful for the incredible impact that Aarti dance academy has had on our daughter. Not only has she grown so much as a dancer, but her confidence, discipline, and love for dance have flourished as well. The classes are the perfect balance of structure, creativity, and fun, and it's clear how much care and passion goes into every lesson. What truly sets her apart is how she connects with her students. She encourages them, challenges them, and makes each child feel seen and valued. Our daughter looks forward to every class and comes home proud of what she's learned that says everything. We feel so lucky to have found such a talented, patient, and inspiring teacher and would recommend her without hesitation to any parent.
Kajal
Thanks so much Aarti for a brilliant week. Shanaiya and Ishaan had a fab time. You and your team are great and it’s amazing how in such a short space of time you taught them all for the amazing show. You have really inspired Shanaiya to keep dancing. She can’t wait for the next one! Also thanks for being so supportive when dropping Ishaan off
Sonal
Esha has attended Aarti Dance Academy, 2 years in a row. She absolutely loves the workshop! I said to Esha that you may not be able to attend next year's workshop as we are planning a holiday. She was like "no!" ... I don't want to go on holiday and miss Aarti Masi's workshop Thank you Aarti Lakhani, again for a wonderful workshop and giving all the children this great opportunity. Loved all the performance's ... Well done all
Sham
Thank you so much Aarti , my daughter had an awesome week , thoroughly enjoyed the week , making lots of friends , enjoying the activities and obviously the dancing .
It’s so nice to hear her sing and dance to songs I did when I was young .
Great show from all the kids . Well done !!!
Roshny
Thank you Aarti for an amazing week of fun, memories and laugh. My girls had an fantastic week with a new found love for Bollywood. You are so good at what you do with a genuine love for dance and children x
Looking forward to the next xxxx
Sarita
My girls haven’t stopped performing since the workshop and we’ve had a new found appreciation for 80s & 90s Bollywood! Couldn’t have asked for anything more - my girls learnt to dance & were kept amused with activities in between. We’re ready for next year!!! Thanks Aarti - you were ace xx
Sapna
A huge huge thank you to the very talented Aarti Lakhani for helping me put a surprise dance performance together in just 2 hours, just 4 days prior to my little sister's Seema Kanani's Wedding. I was keen to incorporate my pre-existing choreography to Ghar More Pardesiya - but I didn't know where to begin. Thanks to Aarti she helped find suitable songs and choreographed them for me (Manwa Laage/Ghoomar). I am a non-dancer but Aarti gave me all the encouragement and made me believe in myself. She's a fantastic teacher and she's a perfectionist too. Thank you soo much for making it happen xxx
Devisha
I've been part of Aarti's dance academy since 2009! And I am so glad shes brought back bollyfitness classes! Aarti teaches and supports everyone regardless of ability - you never have to worry if you miss a step or if you're not in sync! Its all about having fun, getting fit and the thumkas Amazing class - lots of energy and positivity! Would definitely recommend this!
Resh
Aarti you are so much more than a dance teacher.
Your inspiration, morals, values and principles are so admirable.
Keep shining and following your dreams
Ria loved your dance academy you and your dream team definitely making dreams come true thank you
Client
my daughter had a brilliant day at the dance workshop She enjoyed all the activities including where she made a photo frame and keyring and loved
bringing it back home to show me. My daughter is looking forward to
the summer camp. Thank you xx
Kay
Both my girls have had the most amazing week, coming home everyday, excited about their routine and what a lovely performance to watch at the end. They can’t wait for next year. Thank you Aarti and the dream team for everything
Ketna
A big big thank you Aarti for an amazing week. Alysia had the most amazing time and is already talking about next year. Big thank you to you and your team for all your hard work. You are all amazing and so passionate about what you do bringing so much happiness to all the kids. It was lovely seeing Alysia dance. Wishing ADA all the best for many many more years to come. X
Sheetal
Love Aarti’s Bollywood classes - it’s mine and my daughter’s favourite part of the week….fun and enjoyable and the best part is it’s dancing to our favourite Bollywood tunes….thanks Aarti
Pooja
I recently had the pleasure of sending my daughter to ADA’s Bollywood dance in a day camp run by Aarti. The camp was a perfect mix of dance, fun activities, and positive reinforcement. The kids learned Bollywood dance routines to catchy, familiar music, which kept them engaged while having a blast. There was also a great arts and crafts segment where the children made jewellery boxes decorated with gems, helping them express creativity while discussing themes of self-worth and positivity.
The camp was well-structured, with a healthy snack provided. Aarti was incredibly warm and friendly, creating a comfortable and safe environment for all the kids. It's clear that Aarti genuinely cares about the children’s well-being and development.
Overall, I highly recommend this camp to others. It's a wonderful investment in both dance and personal growth for young kids. A huge thank you to Aarti for her dedication and warmth!
Client
Thank you so much for the activity section,
She loved it and she enjoyed a lot learnt new activities as well. She made new friends and it's so nice to see when everyone trying to look after her and caring for her. She felt fully blessed.
Thank you for all support ❤
Client
My daughter had a fab time with Aarti and her team! She came back home with tonnes of arts and crafts
they'd been busy making and even taught me a few Bollywood moves! Would highly recommend to any
parent looking for activities to send their children too during the school holidays
Client
Khush loved every minute. All the activities were really well thought out and he really embraced them. Khush was proud of all the crafts he came home with. Loved the song choices too! Look forward to Summer Camp 2025! X
Client
Aarti recently led a Bollywood/Bhangra dance party for my daughter’s birthday, and it was absolutely fantastic from start to finish. At first, my daughter was a little unsure how this style of party would be received by her friends, but the moment they arrived and met Aarti, any nerves disappeared, it was instant magic!
Aarti’s lively, bubbly, and incredibly warm personality immediately put all the children at ease and had them excited to get started. She ran a fun warm-up that had the kids giggling and fully engaged, before teaching them a dance routine to Ed Sheeran’s “Sapphire”. Amazingly, within just an hour, the children were confidently performing the routine, complete with outfits that Aarti had thoughtfully provided.
The final performance for the parents was a real highlight. We were completely blown away by how well a large group of 6–9 year olds followed the routine with such enthusiasm and confidence. The children had an incredible time, and Aarti even added Bollywood-themed décor to create a real party atmosphere.
What impressed us most was how effortlessly Aarti managed the group, we genuinely didn’t have to do a thing. Everything was taken care of, allowing us to relax and enjoy the party too.
Months later, my daughter and her friends are still saying, “Shall we do the Sapphire dance?” which says it all. Thank you, Aarti, for being so accommodating, inclusive, and for creating such a fun, memorable birthday experience!
Meetal
I just wanted to say that the girls have had such a wonderful time since starting dance classes with you. It's been incredible to watch them shine, grow in confidence, and develop such a joyful connection to music and
movement. Your passion for teaching and your love for dance are truly inspiring.
You've created an environment where they feel encouraged, supported, and excited to learn. We constantly hear music playing at home, and it's clear how much they're enjoying every moment of this journey.
They are already looking forward to your summer camp sessions and they cannot wait to continue dancing with you next term. Thank you so much for your incredible teaching, encouragement, and the love you show to each and every one of your students. Meetal xxx
Since starting dance classes with Aarti's Dance Academy I feel my mental health and self confidence has really improved. I feel like I'm doing something for myself and feel a great sense of achievement I look forward to the classes and it's a great vibe ladies all friendly and smiley. Love my Monday evening Bollifit Classes thank you Aarti your energy and enthusiasm is amazing
XX
I really love the feel of when I come to the dance classes. The song choices are fab and suggestions are heard. I come away feeling
raring to go for the week ahead. (I have fomo if I miss a class!!
Attending your class brings me so much joy. Dancing to Bollywood music with like minded women feels empowering (and nostalgic). It's a feel good workout that reconnects me with the little girl who used to dance in front of the mirror!
I've always loved Bollywood dancing so I'm so glad I found Aarti's dance to be able to continue my passion and make new friends! I have so much fun at the classes | go to on Mondays! I feel a sense of achievement and it gets me away from chores or sitting on the sofa! It's a fun way to exercise and to start the week on a positive note. Aarti is so welcoming and full of energy that it translates through to the rest of us. I'm always looking forward to our Monday classes!
I joined the dance class just to get a bit of time for myself, and I forgot how much I enjoy dancing! It really helps me switch off from the daily chaos. The group is really friendly, and Aarti's energy is so uplifting, she just brightens your mood. Mondays have become something I actually look forward to now!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the support and care you've given Pavneet. I've seen such amazing changes in her - real milestones that I honestly didn't expect to see so soon!
She absolutely loves dancing now, and we were blown away by her performance. It's hard to believe how much she has learned in such a short time. I was quite worried about her focus and confidence at first, but with your guidance and the kindness of all the children during the sessions, she's truly come out of her shell.
Watching her grow and enjoy herself has been such a joy for us. We're really excited for the new sessions ahead. "Thank you" feels like such small words compared to everything you've done for her.
Reeva had the best time at your class, she's not stopped dancing since and says she misses it. She loves Bollywood but would never show anyone but me and her dad her dances and now she's
confident to do it infront of all. She came back saying she had a great day so thank you for all your hard work, time and effort that goes into the week of fun for them.
As parents is was nerve racking sending her to her first camp but we were so happy when she came back full of beans.
My children had a fantastic time at Bollywood Camp! They not only enjoyed themselves thoroughly, but they also remembered their dance routines and confidently performed them at a family dinner-such a proud moment for us! I'm incredibly grateful to Arti for her wonderful teaching and for
creating such a fun and enriching environment.
I highly recommend ADA to any parent-my kids gained so much more than just dance skills. They grew in confidence, made new friends, and experienced a wide range of fun and engaging activities. Thank you for such a memorable week!
I can’t thank Aarti enough for everything she did for me. I was getting married and had absolutely no confidence dancing in front of people — just the thought of it made me anxious. Aarti was incredibly patient, supportive, and understanding from the very first session. She broke everything down and slowly but surely, she helped me find both my rhythm and my confidence.
By the end, I genuinely enjoyed dancing in front of people, something I never thought I’d say! Aarti turned what I feared most into one of the highlights of my wedding. I’m so grateful for her guidance and would recommend her to anyone.
Ready to Dance? Join Us
Discover the beauty of movement, culture, and community at Aarti’s Dance Academy. Whether you’re a beginner eager to take your first steps or an experienced dancer seeking new challenges, our classes cater to all levels.
Have Any Questions? Let’s Start to Talk
Transform your passion into artistry with us – Aarti’s Dance Academy, where the magic of dance comes to life.




























































































































