'We are two butterflies happily dancing on stage' - Sonali Kulkarni

Sonali Kulkarni has now been termed as the 'Dark Horse' in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa; with remarkable improvements on the dance floor, she has now managed to win the hearts of judges' as well as the viewers. Sonali known for her sensuous and serious performances on the Big screen, says that she is now looking forward to Bollywood roles with more of flair and scope to dance...

Here is an upright and sincere Sonali expressing her views on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa and her journey in the reality show..

What do you have to say with the recent comments on your dress code in the last Gala?

Yes, the Judges reacted to my dressing code, but it is also true that they have appreciated my growth as a dancer. I don't understand why more of negative vibes are spread about me, even when i got my first perfect scores in my other performance in the Gala. It is absolutely fine for me; the judges have their personal thoughts, but all present in the audience there felt the comments on dress were a bit far fetched.. But I am happy for the fact that, the judges now not only observe dance, but also the dress, the foot, the footwear; they want me to be perfect in absolutely everything.(laughs)

How are your rehearsals going for the next round?

I have just got my first 30. So I am gun go about it, We are working really hard, and I would want all to watch out for my performances the next week. I am sure that I will get 'Once More' cries from one and all.

How are you coping up with the pressure of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa?

See, I am an optimist to the core, a positive person always. I usually don't start a work if I cannot cope with its pressures. I have never complained about my hectic work, I am very good at organizing my day, so I would say that I am coping up with Jhalak very well.

How is it to work with Toby?

He is really great; Ours is more of a team work, wherein I dance for him, and he dances for me. We both drop all inhibitions and work together. When I see my performances with Toby, it gives me a feeling that we are two butterflies happily dancing on stage.

We heard that you were very upset with Prachi entering as Wild card. Tell us about it?

I have never spread negative emotions to anyone, let me make this clear. Yes, I was upset, but the reason was miscommunicated. At the start of Jhalak, we had been given a big contract book by the channel, where nothing was mentioned about the entry of a wild card. So when all of a sudden, we got to know this from the media, I got annoyed. It would have been nice, if the team of Jhalak had told the existing participants of the inclusion of a Wild Card in the format. They can't throw surprises at us like this; it is fine if they add a new rule, but we deserved to be known earlier..

Who do you think is your biggest threat now?

I am a threat to myself! After my low scores in the first few rounds, I have jumped back in the race now. I now realize that the judges' marks do play on the psyche of the voting public. I was initially unhappy when Junta did not recognize the efforts I put in;I felt that my talent and art was underestimated. But now, I have also improved, all are witnessing it, and I am happy that the Junta has opened their eyes towards me..

The gutsy Sonali cannot really be stopped! Whether it be a 'Dress Down' by the judges, or negative media comments, Sonali is striving hard to give her best... Will the saying 'Slow and Steady Win the Race' come true for Sonali in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa? Let us wait and watch...

Reporter: Srividya Rajesh
Author: Srividya Rajesh