Editor’s Note: A previous version of this article wrote that Pallavi Mehta Wahi works at K&L Gates. As of time of publishing, she works at Arnold & Porter. An unattributed quote has also been attributed to a Plymouth Housing spokesperson. Both corrections have been made.
Local attorney Pallavi Mehta Wahi represents national and international clients in commercial and intellectual property litigation, but she also has an artistic side. Wahi practices Bollywood dance, a tradition deeply rooted in her culture and community.
For Wahi, Bollywood is about place as well as movement. “I am a proud Seattleite and being part of the community is critical to me and my family,” she said. “Blending both is allowing me to share emotion and storytelling that is key to expressing a message.”
Wahi has loved Bollywood since her youth. “My childhood memories are filled with the joyful beats of Bollywood dancing, especially with my family during festivals in my hometown,” Wahi reminisced. “The vibrant culture, the colors, and the energy are deeply rooted in my cultural identity.”
It’s a passion she couldn’t help expanding upon. “Growing up in a household where Bollywood music and movies were a key part of those memories, dance became a way to connect with my heritage and traditions,” Wahi recounted. “Its dynamic energy can be infectious.”
In March, Wahi brought that energy to the stage, performing as part of Seattle Dances, an event hosted to raise money for Plymouth Housing’s drive to end homelessness. “As a downtown resident, I witness daily the profound impact of homelessness on our city and its citizens,” she shared. “Every individual deserves a safe place to sleep and live, and through the dedicated efforts of Plymouth Housing, we are fostering a stronger, more compassionate community.”
For Seattle Dances, Wahi performed with Eshita Jayaswal, a choreographer and instructor for Rangeela Dance Company. “The rehearsals have been such a great experience, and spending time with a talented dancer like Eshita has made it feel more like a celebration than work,” Wahi enthused. “The energy and enthusiasm she brings to each session are contagious, making every practice session not only productive but also incredibly enjoyable.”
Wahi finds that her support of Plymouth Housing dovetails well with her litigation work. “As the Managing Partner of the Seattle office of K&L Gates, I am immensely proud of all the organizations that our team of lawyers and I are supporting,” she said. “We are committed to contributing to nearly one hundred local organizations throughout the city and region, addressing critical issues such as homelessness, environmental sustainability, legal support, education, healthcare, and social justice.” At the time of publishing, Wahi is a partner at Arnold & Porter.
“Pallavi raised nearly $200,000 for Plymouth, taking home the Mirror Ball Trophy for Housing First Hero, awarded to the dance team that raises the most money. Pallavi even brought her young son Jai on stage to join in the performance,” said a Plymouth Housing spokesperson.
She is particularly honored to champion Plymouth Housing. “Witnessing the positive changes in our community reinforces my belief in the power of collective action and compassion,” she said. “It’s heartwarming to see neighbors, friends, and strangers come together to support this vital cause. Together, we are not only providing homes, but also hope for a brighter future.”
