Pallikaranai conservancy worker N Senbagavalli becomes Instagram sensation

A 13-year conservancy worker and evening autorickshaw driver from Pallikaranai has become a viral sensation after gaining over 17,200 followers on Instagram in the last six months by sharing videos of herself dancing to Tamil film hits in her work uniform. N. Senbagavalli, who is employed by waste management company Urbaser Sumeet in Zone XIV of the Greater Chennai Corporation, has captured widespread attention for her energetic dance routines and her ability to balance multiple demanding jobs.

Senbagavalli's passion for dance began during her childhood when she would accompany her mother to her workplace at AVM Studios. While at the studios, the school dropout would watch film shoots from a distance to learn choreography. She eventually landed a role as a background dancer in a song for the Tamil film Thiruda Thiruda, starring Prashanth.

Although marriage and motherhood temporarily distanced her from dancing, Senbagavalli's husband, who works as a security guard, encouraged her to return to her passion. She initially started sharing her dance videos on TikTok. After the platform was banned in India, she transitioned to YouTube and eventually to Instagram, where her sister's daughter helped her open an account.

Because Senbagavalli cannot read, her two sons help her by translating the comments left on her posts, which she says motivates her to explore her dancing. Her reels, particularly one showing her dancing in the rain to an Ilaiyaraaja and P. Susheela song, have received significant engagement, with that specific post garnering 99,000 likes.

In addition to her viral online presence, Senbagavalli's talent is recognized locally. Residents of Kamakoti Nagar, where she makes trips to collect waste, are aware of her love for dance. She is also able to showcase her talent at events hosted by her employer, Urbaser Sumeet.

Despite her sudden digital success, Senbagavalli remains focused on improving her skills. She is currently searching for a dance institute to receive formal training.