Anushka Pushpala is a Bhangra instructor for the Elite Naach Academy and a Bay Area native who has been dancing, teaching and competing since she was 4 years old. Her training includes Ballet, Jazz, Bollywood and Bhangra. 

She began her Bhangra journey at the age of 10, performing with various groups in the community. Once she entered college, she joined her college Bhangra team, called Da Real Punjabiz and competed all four years while pursuing her degree. After graduating, she has danced with various teams around the country as well as founded SHER and San Francisco Bhangra Club. Most recently, she has been working with Bhangra Empire on performances and videos. 

Anushka believes dance in general has the ability to teach life lessons (discipline, self-confidence, and creativity, to name a few) that can be carried throughout life. Bhangra specifically has taught her balance, through it’s high-energy and powerful workout combined with its traditional and graceful techniques.

Anushka graduated from the University of California - San Diego with a degree in International Studies and Anthropology. She’s previously worked in the food and nonprofit industries in both operations and marketing positions. 

When she’s not dancing, you can find Anushka in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes, painting on her roof or traveling the country in search for the perfect sunrise!