In the bustling world of business, where high-stakes decisions and relentless demands can often overshadow personal interests, Meenakshi Lala stands out as a beacon of balance and passion. As the CEO of UrbanStems, a thriving remote floral delivery startup, Lala has demonstrated that integrating personal passions with professional responsibilities can not only enrich one’s life but also enhance leadership capabilities. Her dedication to Indian classical dance, specifically kathak, offers valuable insights into how extracurricular pursuits can positively impact business leadership.
A Passion for Kathak
Meenakshi Lala’s journey with dance began early in her life in India. Kathak, a classical Indian dance form that translates to “storytelling,” has been her chosen medium of expression. Known for its intricate footwork, expressive gestures, and narrative elements, kathak is often compared to ballet in terms of its technical demands and aesthetic grace. Despite her move to the U.S., where she took a brief hiatus from dancing due to the challenge of finding a suitable dance school, Lala’s commitment to kathak remained unwavering. She eventually found her guru in New York and has been part of her dance company for over 15 years.
Founding the New York Kathak Festival
Lala’s passion for dance extends beyond personal practice into community engagement. In 2019, she co-founded the New York Kathak Festival alongside a fellow dancer. The festival was established to fill a gap in the city’s cultural landscape, providing a platform for both emerging and established kathak artists. The festival, which takes place annually, has grown into a prominent event in the kathak community, attracting artists and audiences from across the globe.
Running the festival involves a significant amount of planning and effort, especially in the months leading up to the event. This period is marked by intense multitasking, from organizing logistics and securing sponsorships to managing grant applications. Despite these challenges, Lala finds the work fulfilling and enjoys the opportunity to contribute to the kathak community in New York.
Integrating Dance into Leadership
Lala’s involvement in kathak is not just a personal passion but a critical component of her leadership approach at UrbanStems. Her regular dance practice, which includes weekly sessions and increased rehearsals before performances, serves as a form of exercise and stress relief. It replaces her gym workouts during peak times, allowing her to maintain physical fitness and mental clarity amidst her busy schedule.
The discipline and focus required in kathak have translated into her leadership style. Dancing has taught her the value of perseverance, attention to detail, and the ability to perform under pressure—qualities that are essential for leading a dynamic company. Moreover, her engagement with dance and the cultural community provides her with a unique perspective that enriches her interactions with her team and stakeholders.
Creating a Culture of Balance
At UrbanStems, Lala’s commitment to balancing work and personal interests fosters a positive work environment. She believes that a happy and fulfilled leader is better equipped to inspire and motivate their team. By pursuing her passion for dance, Lala sets an example for her colleagues, demonstrating that it is possible to integrate personal interests with professional responsibilities. This philosophy of self-care and balance helps create a culture of ease and accountability, even in the face of high expectations and pressures from investors.
Conclusion
Meenakshi Lala’s dual commitment to leading UrbanStems and practicing kathak underscores the profound impact that personal passions can have on professional success. Her story illustrates how pursuing an extracurricular interest can enhance leadership skills, improve well-being, and foster a supportive work culture. As leaders navigate the complexities of their roles, integrating personal passions and interests can provide a source of motivation, resilience, and inspiration, ultimately leading to a more balanced and effective approach to leadership.
