Rutuja Junnarkar

Rutuja Junnarkar is an Indian dancer who is one of the top 12 contestants in the dance reality show "India's Best Dancer.

Rutuja Junnarkar – Versatile Dancer & Screen Artist

Early Life & Education

Rutuja was born on 14 February 1995 in Pune, Maharashtra, into a supportive Marathi family passionate about the arts. She earned her bachelor's degree in Computer Applications (BCA) from Fergusson College in Pune. Her journey into dance began early—starting formal training by age six.

Dance Training & Breakthrough

From classical roots in Bharatanatyam to versatile styles like Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Western, Latin, and Maharashtrian folk, Rutuja has honed an eclectic and dynamic skill set.

She gained early recognition through reality TV, participating in shows such as:

Dance Maharashtra Dance (2018)

India’s Dancing Superstar

Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega

Dholkichya Talavar

Her major breakthrough was reaching the Top 12 contestants on India’s Best Dancer (2020), where she impressed judges and audiences alike.

Professional Projects & Screen Presence

Television & Dance Reality: Besides her stint on India’s Best Dancer, Rutuja performed on High Fever… Dance Ka Naya Tevar in 2018 alongside choreographer Ashish Patil.

Filmography (IMDb): Acted in Marathi and Hindi films including Urmi (2023), Raah e Ishq, and appeared in digital content like Gusto with GD.

YouTube & Social Media: Runs a successful YouTube channel with over 32,000 subscribers featuring dance performances and behind-the-scenes content.
Her Instagram (@rutuja.junnarkar) boasts over 124K followers, showcasing her lifestyle, dance reels, and brand collaborations.

Achievements & Recognitions

Top 12 finalist on India’s Best Dancer (2020)

Recipient of the “Umed Puruskar” for Best Dancer, awarded by Sharmila Tagore

Regular headliner on other major dance reality platforms, admired for her stage presence, expressive storytelling, and technical finesse.

Personal Style & Influences

Idolizes Bollywood icon Madhuri Dixit, drawing inspiration from her grace and emotive performance style.

Believes in blending classical tradition with contemporary innovation—fusing Bharatanatyam with modern dance techniques to craft a unique stage identity.

Lives by the mantra of hard work, discipline, and continuous growth—whether connecting with her audience through Instagram reels, stage performances, or on-screen roles.

Why She Inspires

Rutuja’s journey—from local dance classes in Pune to national television and regional cinema—reflects perseverance, adaptability, and artistic curiosity. Her ability to merge dance forms, heartfelt storytelling, and screen presence makes her a rising multifaceted talent in India’s performing arts scene.