THE ART OF POLE DANCE

Zakwana Bagban wins International exotic pole competitions

Pole dance is a dynamic performance art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and strength training, typically performed on a vertical pole. It has evolved from a fitness trend into a competitive sport, showcasing athleticism, flexibility, and creativity. Pole dance championships feature skilled athletes competing in various categories, demonstrating their technical abilities and artistic expression. These competitions have gained global recognition, with participants often performing intricate routines that blend choreography and power moves. The rise of pole dance championships has helped elevate the sport’s credibility and foster a strong, supportive community.
Fresh from her international victory at Exotic Generation, Zakwana Bagban is making waves in the Indian pole dance scene. In an exclusive conversation, she opens up about her journey, the misconceptions around pole dancing in India, and her vision for the future of this powerful art form.

Tell us about your pole dancing journey. How did it all begin?
It all started in 2019 when I was in Dubai. I was immediately drawn to the strength, grace, and sheer artistry of pole dancing. My background in aerial arts helped me transition smoothly, and I was fortunate to train with world-class instructors.
Like many, my training hit a pause during the pandemic, but in 2021, I resumed in Russia, where I explored different pole styles. Later, I trained in Bali, where I focused more on exotic pole, which is all about flow, musicality, and sensuality.
I have been incredibly lucky to learn from some of the best in the world—Vlada Zhizhchenko, Elena Chernyshova, Martina Trombetta, Ekaterina Kuzmina, Polina Litvinenko, Marina Shcherbakova, and many more. Each of them has shaped my style and technique in a unique way. Now, I am back in Mumbai, passionate about growing India’s pole and aerial community.

India has such a rich variety of dance forms. What made you choose pole dance?
I have always been fascinated by movement and have dabbled in classical Indian styles like Kathak and Bharatanatyam. But for me, pole dance was different—it gave me the freedom to be both strong and sensual.
I love hanging upside down, pushing my physical limits, and exploring my expressive side. Pole is the perfect blend of strength, flexibility, creativity, and emotion. It is more than just a dance—it is a form of liberation. Once I started, I knew this was the art form I wanted to dedicate myself to.

Congratulations on winning at Exotic Generation! Tell us more about this competition.
Exotic Generation is one of the biggest international exotic pole competitions. It features multiple categories like Flow, Old School, Hard Style, and Theatre, each showcasing a different aspect of pole dance.
I competed in the Fresh New Face Flow category, which focuses on seamless transitions, musicality, and fluid movement in exotic pole. Performing in front of an international audience and competing with some of the best in the world was a surreal experience. Winning first place was a dream come true and a huge milestone for me.

Internationally, pole dancing is recognized as a sport. But in India, it still faces stigma. What are your thoughts on this?
It is true—pole dancing has deep roots in the strip club industry, and sex workers deserve full credit for shaping so much of the movement vocabulary we use today. Without them, pole as we know it would not exist.
Over time, it has evolved into a respected sport and performance art, yet many people try to separate it from its origins. I do not think that’s necessary. You don’t have to be a stripper to learn pole dance, but we should still acknowledge and respect where it comes from.
In India, unfortunately, women expressing their sensuality is often judged. But sensuality is not something shameful—it is a natural part of being human. Pole dance is powerful, and it belongs to everyone, whether they do it for sport, artistic expression, or the industry that pioneered it.

Now that you’ve returned as a champion, what’s next for you?
The future feels incredibly exciting! I am now preparing for more competitions worldwide and want to keep pushing my limits as a performer and athlete.
A big goal for me is to put Indian pole dancers on the global map—not just as competitors but as artists with unique styles and stories. I also want to continue growing OnAer, my brand, and expanding India’s pole and aerial community.

Where do you see yourself—and pole dancing in India—five years from now?
In five years, I hope to see pole dancing become more accessible and widely accepted in India. I envision more studios, more opportunities, and regular showcases that celebrate this art form.
Looking ahead, I truly believe that within the next 5 to 10 years, India has the potential to host its own international pole competition. That would be a game-changer—giving Indian and international athletes a platform to showcase their talent while putting India on the global pole dance map.
Personally, I see myself continuing to grow as a performer, athlete, and coach—winning more titles and training the next generation of Indian pole dancers who will compete on the world stage. The journey has only just begun, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us!
Zakwana Bagban is not just redefining pole dance in India—she is creating a movement. With every spin, drop, and transition, she is proving that strength, sensuality, and self-expression can coexist beautifully. The future of pole dance in India looks brighter than ever, and Zakwana is leading the way.

Sandip Soparrkar holds a doctorate in world mythology folklore from Pacific University USA, an honorary doctorate in performing arts from the National American University, He is a World Book Record holder, a well-known Ballroom dancer and a Bollywood choreographer who has been honored with three National Excellence awards, one National Achievement Award and Dada Saheb Phalke award by the Government of India. He can be contacted on sandipsoparrkar06@gmail.com