Sumbul Touqeer, one of television’s most beloved young stars, is known for her powerful performances and infectious energy. Beyond acting, there’s another art form that holds a special place in her heart — dance. In a candid conversation on World Dance Day, Sumbul talks about her passion for dancing, its role in her life, and how it continues to inspire and heal her.
How would you rate yourself in dance? A laughing Sumbul says, “If I had to rate myself, I would probably give myself a 7.5 out of 10. I love dancing — it’s something that comes naturally to me. I think I have good rhythm and a strong connection with the music, which is very important. But I also believe there’s always room to learn more and get better. Professional dancers inspire me so much — the way they dedicate themselves to constant practice is something I truly admire.”
Do you see dance as a stress buster in today’s time? “Definitely. In today’s fast-paced life, where stress and pressure have become so common, dance feels like therapy. For those few minutes when I am dancing, I forget about everything else. It’s just me, the music, and the emotions. It gives me a sense of freedom and lightness that’s hard to find elsewhere. I think everyone should dance — even if it’s just in your living room! It’s a beautiful way to release stress and reconnect with yourself.”
What is the kind of dance that you like to see, perform, and enjoy? “I enjoy Bollywood dance a lot — it’s high-energy, vibrant, and so full of life! Performing Bollywood numbers always feels like a celebration. At the same time, I love watching Indian classical dancers. There’s so much emotion and storytelling in those performances. It’s not just about the steps; it’s about what you feel while you dance. I think that’s what makes dance so special — the ability to express what words sometimes can’t.”
According to Sumbul, dance is one of the best holistic workouts. “Physically, it keeps you fit, flexible, and active. It strengthens your stamina, improves posture, and even helps with balance and coordination. Mentally, dance can be incredibly healing. It releases happy hormones like endorphins, which naturally lift your mood. Especially for young people today, who often deal with anxiety and stress, dancing can be a really powerful outlet. It builds confidence and teaches you discipline while also keeping your spirit light.”
Given a chance, is there any kind of dance that you would want to learn? Why not? Without a second thought, Sumbul shares, “I would love to learn Kathak. It’s such a beautiful classical dance form with so much depth. I am fascinated by the intricate footwork, the graceful spins, and most importantly, the storytelling through expressions. It’s something I definitely want to try in the future.”
