Rejected Three Times, Then Won the Trophy on the Same Stage: Ritesh Pal’s Journey from Struggle to Success

Mumbai. The success of 19-year-old Ritesh Pal, who won the India’s Best Dancer Season 5 trophy, is a story of perseverance and relentless hard work. He proved his talent by emerging as the winner on the same stage where he had faced rejection in the previous three seasons.

Ritesh auditioned for Seasons 2, 3 and 4 but faced disappointment each time. Amid repeated rejections, his family advised him to work at his brother’s salon instead of pursuing a career in dance. However, Ritesh continued practising and, rather than giving up, focused on identifying and improving his weaknesses.

Six Days of Dance Practice, Helping at the Salon on Sundays

According to Ritesh, he did not receive the support he had hoped for from his family during the initial stages of his journey. After failing to clear auditions for several consecutive years, his family became concerned about his future. They advised him to work at his brother’s salon and help manage the business.

Ritesh did not completely disregard his family’s advice. While continuing his dance training and practising six days a week, he helped out at his brother’s salon on Sundays. This also allowed him to earn some money for his personal expenses. Despite the circumstances, he never considered giving up dance.

Mentor Manish’s Faith Became His Pillar of Support

His mentor, Manish, played a crucial role in Ritesh’s journey. During periods of repeated setbacks, when his confidence and patience began to waver, his mentor continued to encourage him.

Ritesh says his mentor was even more patient than he was. Manish would reassure him that one day he would reach a major stage and achieve success. He also taught Ritesh to view rejection not as failure but as part of the preparation process. This approach helped him remain committed to his practice.

Three Rejections Became Learning Opportunities

Despite failing to make it through three seasons of India’s Best Dancer, Ritesh never considered the setbacks to be the end of his journey. Although each rejection was disappointing, he used the experience to identify and work on his mistakes and shortcomings.

Ritesh believes that he may not have been fully prepared for success at that stage. Each audition taught him something new, and those experiences eventually helped him move forward.

Preparing for Season 6 When the Season 5 Opportunity Arrived

Ritesh’s journey in Season 5 took an unexpected turn. He had been planning to audition for the next season instead of trying again immediately. However, he received a call inviting him to audition for Season 5.

He accepted the opportunity and appeared for the audition, securing selection in the very first round. As he progressed through the competition, his confidence continued to grow. Although he hoped to perform well, he had not imagined that he would ultimately lift the trophy.

Fulfilling His Dream of Working with Pratik Utekar

Ritesh had long wanted to work with choreographer Pratik Utekar, and he got the opportunity during the show. According to Ritesh, the experience changed the way he approached dance.

He explained that he had previously focused mainly on steps and movements. However, Pratik Utekar taught him the importance of understanding the character and emotions behind a performance. This helped Ritesh realize that emotional expression is as important as technical skill in dance.

Ritesh Wants to Build a Home for His Mother

After winning the trophy and prize money, Ritesh’s priority is not to spend the money on expensive items for himself but to build a home for his mother. He wants to name the house ‘Hari Darshan’.

According to Ritesh, when he began his dance journey, he had dreamed that once he achieved success, he would first do something meaningful for his mother. Now, he wants her to have a home of her own. For him, doing something for his mother is like doing something for himself.

Setting His Sights on International Stages and Films

After winning the India’s Best Dancer trophy, Ritesh has already set his sights on new goals. He dreams of performing on international platforms and wants audiences around the world to witness his talent.

Alongside dance, Ritesh also hopes to pursue a career in acting. Working in films is another one of his ambitions. While dance remains his current priority, he hopes to establish himself in the acting industry in the future.