A woman walking towards the camera, wearing a sleeveless brown top and blue jeans, with her hands in her pockets, on a plain light background.

Our Founder

Dance has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember—18 years and counting! I started with classical Indian dance and spent over a decade building my foundation in discipline, grace, and technique. But it was in college where my love for dance truly came alive. I became captain of both my Bollywood Fusion and Raas teams, and that experience completely transformed how I saw dance—not just as an art, but as a form of leadership, empowerment, and storytelling.

Over the years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to perform alongside and share the stage with some truly iconic Indian artists, including the late Bappi Lahiri, Deepa Iyengar, Anusree, and many more. Those moments have shaped me as both a performer and a creative, and I’m so grateful for every single one.

I created Naach Dance Company because I saw a gap—especially in the DMV area—for a space that welcomed dancers of all levels, celebrated South Asian culture, and empowered people to move with confidence. I wanted to build a dance community that’s vibrant, inclusive, and rooted in both tradition and creativity.

At Naach, our classes are more than just movement. They’re a place to express yourself, challenge your limits, and grow—not just as a dancer, but as a person. Whether you’re dancing for the first time or you’ve been performing for years, I believe there's a place for everyone here.

Outside of dance and running my businesses, I’m a huge lover of travel. I find so much inspiration in exploring new cultures, trying new food spots, and getting lost in different cities. I’m also a big family person—some of my happiest moments are spent surrounded by loved ones. And of course, my heart belongs to my dog, Milo, who is my little best friend and cuddle buddy.

Naach Dance Company is a huge piece of my heart, and I’m so grateful to be able to share it with all of you. Whether you’re here to learn, connect, or just have fun—I’m so excited to dance with you.

-Andrea

Andrea Shaji, Founder

Meet the team

Young woman in a pink suit with crossed arms, smiling, against a gray textured background.
Young woman with curly hair dancing or posing on stage against a black background, wearing a pink crop top and a long, flowing skirt with feathered details.

Andrea S.

Founder & Instructor

A young woman with long black hair standing on a balcony with white railings, wearing a light blue embroidered dress and silver earrings, with trees and houses in the background.

Jinu S.

Instructor: Gaithersburg

A woman in traditional Indian attire, wearing a gold blouse and a red and white saree with intricate patterns, stands against a brick wall with her arms crossed, looking to the side.

Christina P.

Instructor: Ellicott City

Beau B.

Instructor: Tysons

A young woman with long dark hair wearing a patterned dress, a white cardigan, and a necklace with a cross, smiling in a restaurant with a brick wall and hanging lights.

Angelina T.

Instructor: Online Kids

Greeshma R.

Instructor: Ellicott City

A young woman with long wavy hair wearing a black sweatshirt and light blue jeans, smiling at the camera, standing inside a traditional Asian-style wooden structure with intricate painted ceiling details and open wooden doors, with trees and other people visible in the background.

Anna A.

Instructor: Ellicott City

Zeel P.

Instructor: Ellicott City

What People Are Saying About NDC

“My son had an amazing time learning Indian dance at DMV Naach. The program exceeded our expectations in every way!

The instructor, Andrea S. was fantastic, energetic, patient, and truly passionate about Indian dance.
I’m truly amazed by her ability to remember the intricate choreography for the many dances she teaches—it’s a testament to her exceptional talent. Personally, I’ve had a wonderful experience with her. Whenever I reached out to discuss opportunities within our community to showcase her students’ talents, she was always willing to say yes and went above and beyond to ensure her students had the chance to shine on stage.

The classes were well-organized, with a perfect balance of fun and learning. Each session introduced new moves, and by the end of the program, the children performed a choreographed routine that was delightful to watch.
Not only did my son learn some amazing dance moves, but he also developed a deeper appreciation for Indian culture.”

- Josni Z.

“I am currently an instructor here at DMV Naach and I absolutely love the community! This dance studio has given me the ability to dwell on my passion for dance while teaching and promoting others to do so as well! Definitely would recommend DMV Naach to everyone!”

- Christina P.


“I highly recommend DMV Naach and Ms Andrea to anyone who is looking to learn Bollywood dance. Andrea is a very talented dancer and instructor. She is also very patient with kids. She has helped my kids perform for various dance events.”

- Resmi K.

“Andrea taught us a Bollywood couple's dance for our wedding reception in under a month. She was so flexible with our schedule and worked with our (limited) experience level. Can't recommend Naach enough!”

- Katherine D.