When Imitiaz Aboobacker decided to take up finger dancing as his profession, his dream was met with skepticism. At that time, ‘finger dancing’ was practically unheard of in India and the number of artistes associated with this unique dance form was just a handful. But five years and many shows later, Imitiaz is riding high. His ‘finger dance’ performance in Rajesh K Abraham’s Aaru Sundarikalude Kadha (ASK), which released on Friday has an exclusive song using this unique art, a first-ofits- kind he claims to have ever been experimented in the world of film.
Imitiaz’s album Love is Divine, which was released worldwide on Valentine’s day earned him a name in Limca Book of Records. But what excites him the most at this moment is his newly found dream. The artist plans to set up a ‘finger dance’ school aimed exclusively for the differentlyabled children of the city.
It is a known fact that ‘Finger dance’ is a form of art where dance is performed using only the fingers. Characters are given intricately designed costumes and life of their own as they start to dance, spin, walk, run and waltz.
The artist elaborates, “Finger dancing is unique and quite popular in foreign countries. It is also catching up slowly in India. Complicated stories of battles, cultural evolutions and romance can be emoted if you have the right moves. Just like other art forms you need passion to master the art. However, what counts above the rest is your ability to stay in control.”
So, does he realise that it would be a great deal of challenge to start a school for the differently-abled? “Yes. But it is worth it. You see, such children have limitations in their movement of the limbs. But nothing prevents them from using their fingers. I am sure a few of them would be longing to do a dance step, if they are able to,” he says.
“I am in touch with people who could possibly sponsor the school. If this becomes a reality, such children will be given a unique opportunity which will inturn occupy them completely and help in the overall development of the child,” he says.
Imitiaz is currently part of Bharathi the Show, Israeli Gashash Deshe’s international dance production which is currently touring the world. He has performed at several international stages including France, Canada, Holland, Morrocco etc and also danced with famous bands like the Pussy Cat Dolls.
The 31-year-old from Kochi says, cites that it was the movie, Psycho and Tom and Jerry cartoons (gloves playing on the keyboard) that gave him the impetus into the world of finger dancing.