Books: The Tao of Physics by Fritjof Capra, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and the Upanishads (Hindu scriptures).

On the iPod: Indian classical music, Ella Fitzgerald, Keith Jarrett, Kitaro and Queen Elephantine.

Work of art: 'I am very instinctive: I might like one work but hate another by the same artist. Favourites include Jamini Roy, Nandalal Bose of the Old Bengal School and Andy Warhol.'

Dancer: Mikhail Baryshnikov. 'One of the dance pieces from White Nights leaves a vivid image in my mind.'

Also: 'Kalanidhi Narayanan, my guru, and many great Indian dancers. Watching them is a spiritual journey.'

Choreography: the forthcoming production Tao of the Heart by Sri Shakti Academy. 'It is a work without defining boundaries, a work based on improvisation. It juxtaposes Indian dance with Chinese, modern and flamenco while drawing upon tai chi, yoga and theatre arts.'

Hero: Mother Teresa. 'I come from Calcutta, so I've seen her influence.'

Charity: 'In India, I sponsor a boy through World Vision and Cry. In the future, I hope to sponsor a girl in building her dance career.'

Restaurant: Mozart Stub'n on Glenealy in Central. 'The souffle is to die for.'

Two items to take to a desert island: 'Sun block and a good read.'

Place in Hong Kong: 'The open spaces and walled villages in Kam Tin, New Territories.'