Rana's first blog post

My mother was a dancer (ballet) and so my interest in dance has been an important part of my life. I also studied ballet myself, although I chose a career in film. I have known Hema for many years and I first filmed her at Columbia College Dance Center, when she first arrived on the scene. I maintained contact with her through the years, filming her at different times in her life. Hema is significant because she is a strong woman who as an immigrant to Chicago, has been able to achieve her dreams in a hostile environment. When she came to Chicago there weren’t many Indians in this area. Finally, she become a well-known leader in her community, becoming one of the founders of the first Hindu temple and helping families and women become strong and vibrant through her school and dance company.