Marzi Pestonji: Good work does not need publicity
Choreographer Marzi Pestonji is returning to television as a judge on Super Dancer 5, the children's dance reality show making a comeback after four years. He believes dance on reality shows has evolved just like it has in Bollywood.
In a chat with Mumbai Mirror, he notes, 'In the past, only a few actors could dance. Today, almost all of them are known for their moves. Today, dancing is an important part of films and has become a viable career path. It is now seen as a serious profession that can provide a livelihood and support entire families.'
There has been a long-standing debate on choreographers not getting mentioned in the credit rolls of songs.
On the topic of choreographers not always receiving public recognition, Marzi believes work itself is the greatest publicity. He says, 'People want more credit for their work, and I respect that. But I have always believed that your work should speak for you. Shiamak Davar's work in Dhoom 2 did not need extra promotion.
Everyone knew it because of its quality. When your work is good, nothing else matters.'
Despite his many achievements, Marzi remains content with the balance between the spotlight and staying in the background, especially alongside Shiamak.
He explains, 'I always tell Shiamak, 'You are the boss, you work hard, and I will enjoy the rewards. Why should both of us push the same rock uphill?' During rehearsals, I sit and learn by watching him. Sometimes he does something I had not thought of, and I remind him that is why he is at the top.
I am happy in my space. When I am in the spotlight, I shine, and when I am behind him, I learn. I am not insecure about it either way.'
Loyalty, for him, is the cornerstone of his career. 'If you are loyal to yourself, you are loyal to everybody else. I have always stayed true to myself and to Shiamak. My focus will always remain with him. I am not here to prove a point. I am here to learn from him and grow alongside him,' he concludes.
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