When someone mentions the word ‘Manmadharasa’ the only thing that comes to our mind is the fabulous dance moves from the film ‘Thiruda thirudi’. Here we have Dance Master Shiva Shankar the genius who made history in the Tamil Film Industry with his brilliant choreography.

1. When did you join films?

In 1975 with the movie ‘Paatum Barathamum’ under the famous Salim Master.

1. What are the different types of dances you learnt?

Bharathanatyam and Kathakali under Shri Natarajan and Smt Shankunthala in Mylapore.

1. Were you sure you wanted to join films?

Yes I definitely wanted to.

1. What was your mile stone in cinema?

Manmadhanrasa.

1. Which is your personal favourite among the various works you’ve done?

Not yet. I am yet to do what I like.

1. Is it important for a hero to know dance?

It’s really nice if they care to learn dancing before they enter, it just makes our work simpler,in the sense when some one already knows to dance, we as dance directors are inspired to make it look even more better.

1. What do you think about the trend among the dances in films now?

Loads of people come in with not so much talent and await quick success.

1. What do you think about the respect that dance directors are being given now?

It is much better than before.People have recognized the value of talent.

1. Which are the movies that you think are the milestones for dance in cinema?

Janak Janak Payal Baaje,Salangai Oli, Konjum Salangai,Thilana Mohanambal, Style…..

1. Among new dance directors,what do you think is the trend that is being followed now?

There is no dedication.

1. Do you think dilution of the original dance form is wrong in the name of commercialism?

Commercialism is not wrong but tradition must be kept.

1. What do you think about upcoming dance trends?

It is quite monotonous as there is no individuality. People do not use creativity.

1. Tell me some thing good about the dance industry?

Group dances have improved a lot and employment has become good.

1. What are the recent promising numbers?

All Vijay songs have been composed really well.

1. What do you think about reality shows based on dance?

It is very heartening to see TV artists performing so well. It is very encouraging.

1. What are your future plans?

I would like to go over seas and teach dance and also formulate dance schools in Chennai.

1. Some thing that you would like to say to dance aspirants.

Learn dance well, get the fundamentals correct and the foundation right. It is highly important.(with a smile).