Raj Desai

Meet Raj, a seasoned dancer whose journey with dance began as early as he can remember walking. Raj has received professional training in diverse Indian dance styles, including Bollywood, Garba, and Bhangra.

His dedication to the art led him to pursue professional dance training, and he honed his skills by participating in numerous dance competitions. Alongside performing, Raj found joy and fulfillment in teaching dance, sharing his expertise with others. This dual role as a dancer and a teacher continued for years until life took a turn when Raj made the decision to move to the United States for further studies.

In pursuit of academic excellence, Raj earned his M.S. in Pharmacy Administration from St. John's University in New York. His professional journey then led him to Charlottesville. Despite the demands of his professional life, Raj never let go of his love for dance. Whenever the opportunity presented itself, he would seize the chance to dance and teach. Yet, a hiatus from teaching dance ensued, a break that lasted until Raj decided it was time to reignite this aspect of his life and embark on a new chapter of teaching dance.

Beyond the world of dance, Raj is a multifaceted individual with a love for sports. He enjoys playing cricket and pickleball, showcasing his versatility in physical activities. Music and movies are the other two constant companions in Raj’s life. He also enjoys spending time playing board games with friends and family.

In Raj's life, dance is not just a pastime; dance remains a thread that ties together his cultural roots and personal fulfillment. Now, as he dusts off his teaching shoes after a hiatus, Raj is ready to weave dance back into the fabric of his life with the Cumulus community!