Hello! Social Nation is back with a fresh & exciting video podcast series – The Social Nation Show! Streaming now on Spotify and YouTube, it’s produced by the best in the biz, Pod.One. The Social Nation Show brings real stories behind the top content creators of India. After 11 epic & insightful episodes, we’re back with the 12th one featuring the multi-talented choreographer, actor, dancer, and content creator: Aadil Khan!
Also Read: Dive Into The World Of Horror Storytelling With Aman Parkar
Episode 12
In our last edition, we delved into the inspiring personal & professional journey of Indian actress Anushka Kaushik. Now, get ready for a new chapter as we hit the spotlight on the multitalented dancer and actor, Aadil Khan! We all know he’s a dynamo on the dance floor, but did you know he once repaired ACs? Surprised? Don’t worry, we’ve got the scoop on his dance career, brand partnerships, his recent US tour, and so much more. Buckle up as we dive into the world of Aadil Khan!
Humble Beginnings
Hailing from Chattarpur, Madhya Pradesh, India, Aadil stated that it has been quite a journey in the industry. “The journey hasn’t been so easy. I’m from Chhatarpur, and I think from my circle and my family, nobody has gone to the USA—not even people who have a US visa. So, it’s a proud feeling for me and my family. My family doesn’t even have an idea of how big it is to be in the US and touring there, getting love from NRIs,” he said.
Dance: Ek Prem Katha?
We asked him how he found his calling in dance and not in other fields, to which Aadil said, “To be honest, I always wanted to be famous. I had to become famous, whether as an actor or in another way. However, I realized my love for dancing was inspired by Shahid Kapoor. When I saw him for the first time in Ishq Vishk, I totally fell in love with him and his dancing. Moreover, the only reason I joined Shiamak Davar’s dance institute was because he was part of it, and I wanted to dance like him.”
“Once I Was A Repairer…”
Turning back to his previous interviews, we came across one where he shared that his folks were not sure if his dance career would be a good fit for the long haul & her mom made a suggestion that no one saw coming! “In 2010, dancing had limited opportunities. Shows like Dance India Dance focused on background stories rather than real performances. My mother urged me to find stable work, so I joined an AC repairman.“
“I realized that after 12th grade, my parents would pressure me, so I decided to pursue dance while I could. By 10th grade, I knew dancing was my path, and by 11th, I was earning more from it than from other jobs. My mom was supportive as long as I was making money,” Aadil said.
Lights. Camera. Acting!
Talking about his multi-skilled personality, we are aware of his previous TVCs & songs and heard a rumour that he might focus on acting more after. “When I started, I didn’t know I’d be doing this. There’s still a lot more to achieve. This year, I’m focusing on acting. I’ve started with workshops; previously, I did theater and other acting work in Delhi,” he shared.
“After dancing, I resumed workshops and acting training. Suddenly, I got my US visa approved, and now I might again go overseas for the next tour. I’m interested in comedy and romance roles. I think the next 10 years will focus on comedy and romance,” he said.
Life Comes To A Full Circle
Transiting from Chhatarpur to Mumbai, he started as a Zumba trainer and was giving auditions in between and one fine day he met one of the Zumba trainers who has been working for One Digital Entertainment. Coincidence? Hell yes! “My journey began with One Digital Entertainment thanks to my friend Padmavati Iyenger, a Zumba trainer. She encouraged me to make videos, so I created a fun Zumba closure video, which unexpectedly gained 3,000 subscribers in 2017.
The appreciation, especially from the US Zumba community, was overwhelming. I realized that I was finally getting recognition after many auditions. I spoke with Padma about her shooting process, which led me to meet Sudeep Lahiri and join One Digital Entertainment. From Zumba days till now, we are still together!“
How Should A Brand & Creator Relationship Should Be?
If you are a novice or established creator, take notes as these tips might boost your relations with brands. Aadil Khan speaks for the community, “Allow creators to be authentic. Understand their style and genre, & give them the freedom to express themselves. If a brand appreciates your work, let it show naturally rather than forcing an ad. Authenticity is more valuable; even 500,000 genuine views are better than 20 million from partnered content.”
Story Behind US Tour
We got to know about his surprising US Tour which was not as it looked like. “In 2017, I received a workshop offer after my videos went viral, but my low confidence held me back. Over the years, I focused on building my persona. Recently, during a boxing class, my instructor mentioned the US Visa, which inspired me to take a chance. I pursued the opportunity, and the US tour happened. I decided to host the workshop without knowing the level of interest or my popularity. To my surprise, nearly all my classes sold out,” Aadil said.
Words Of Wisdom
We asked Aadil what’s that one piece of advice you would give to aspiring artists looking to make it in the entertainment industry. Aadil expressed, “First of all, I would say that the very first thing you have to do is to believe in yourself. You have to have confidence & believe that you can do it. Nothing is impossible.
With that belief, you have to do it, whether it’s possible or not. We’ll see later, but having a positive attitude & positive energy matters. When you give that signal to the universe, the universe helps you. I believe in universal energy.“
Where Can You Watch The Social Nation Show?
The Social Nation Show will be available on all leading audio and video platforms on Social Nation’s official channels. The video podcasts will be distributed on Social Nation’s Spotify and YouTube handles, whereas the audio podcasts will also be available on Apple Podcast, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Gaana platforms. Catch the best moments of each episode on our Instagram and YouTube Shorts too!
Have you watched our video podcast? Share your favourite moment in the comments below!
