Dance has always been an integral part of Indian cinema. From the early days of Bollywood, dance has played a key role in bringing stories to life on the silver screen. While many talented dancers have graced Bollywood over the decades, a few names stand out as the true gods and goddesses of dance in Hindi films.
Hrithik Roshan
When it comes to the best dancers in Bollywood, Hrithik Roshan’s name tops the list. He is often referred to as the Michael Jackson of India thanks to his impeccable dance moves and incredible flexibility. Hrithik made his acting debut in the 2000 film Kaho Naa…Pyaar Hai, which featured the popular song “Ek Pal Ka Jeena.” His dancing in the song instantly made him a sensation and earned him the moniker of India’s best dancer.
Some of Hrithik’s most iconic Bollywood dance numbers include “You Are My Soniya” from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, “Dhoom Again” from Dhoom 2, and “Bang Bang” from Bang Bang. He is known for his precise movements, expressive face, and ability to take on challenging dance forms like salsa, jazz, and tap with ease. Hrithik’s flawless dance moves, chiselled physique, and good looks make him one of the most popular dancers in Hindi cinema.
Reasons for Hrithik Roshan’s title as the dancing god
- Impeccable dance technique and flexibility
- Michael Jackson-esque dance moves
- Expressive face and fluid body movements
- Mastery over varied dance forms like jazz, salsa, tap
- Consistent delivery of hit dance numbers since his debut
- Chiselled physique and captivating screen presence
Madhuri Dixit
When talking about dance divas of Bollywood, Madhuri Dixit’s name shines right at the top. She is considered the queen of classical dance in Hindi cinema. Madhuri first captured the hearts of movie-goers with her dancing skills in Abodh in 1984. However, it was her dance performances in hit films like Tezaab, Ram Lakhan, Dil, and Saajan in the late 80s and early 90s that catapulted her to stardom.
Some of Madhuri’s most memorable Bollywood dance numbers are “Ek Do Teen” from Tezaab, “Dhak Dhak” from Beta, “Humko Aaj Kal Hai” from Sailaab, and “Maar Dala” from Devdas. Her training in Kathak and Bharatnatyam is evident in her flawless mudras, graceful movements, and breathtaking expressions. She dances with her entire being and draws viewers into the magic of her art. Even today, Madhuri remains unmatched as a dancer in Hindi cinema.
Reasons for Madhuri Dixit’s status as dancing queen
- Formidable training in Indian classical dances Kathak and Bharatnatyam
- Unparalleled expressions and emotive dance flair
- Graceful mudras and poised movements
- Sensuous and energetic dance performances
- Continued legacy with hit numbers like “Ghaghra” from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
- Ability to dance with technical prowess and evoke emotions
Shiamak Davar
While not known for his acting skills, Shiamak Davar deserves a mention as one of the gods of contemporary dance in Bollywood. As a choreographer, Shiamak introduced a modern jazz style of dance to Hindi films in the 1980s. Some of his most iconic choreographies include “Pehla Nasha” from Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar and “Dil To Pagal Hai” from Dil To Pagal Hai.
Shiamak is known for his unique dance style that infuses western dance forms like jazz, hip-hop, and funk with Indian influences. His choreography focuses on clean and synchronized movements, innovative steps, and high energy. He has crafted dance numbers for stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Madhuri Dixit that have gone on to become cult classics. Even today, a Shiamak Davar dance number is guaranteed to impress fans with its modern style and infectiously fun choreography.
Reasons for Shiamak Davar’s contribution as a dancing god
- Pioneer of contemporary/jazz dance style in Bollywood
- Fresh and lively dance moves in hit numbers like “Dil To Pagal Hai”
- Energetic and synchronized choreography
- Creative infusion of western dance and Indian elements
- Innovative steps and formations
- Work with biggest stars like SRK, Madhuri, Aishwarya
Other Notable Dancers
While Hrithik Roshan, Madhuri Dixit, and Shiamak Davar are considered the holy trinity of dance in Bollywood, other stars have also made their mark through their impeccable dance skills:
- Aishwarya Rai Bachchan – Trained in classical dance, she delivered hits like “Nimbooda” from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and “Dola Re Dola” from Devdas.
- Shahid Kapoor – Excellent contemporary dancer evident in songs like “Dhan Te Nan” from Kaminey and “Mauja Hi Mauja” from Jab We Met.
- Tiger Shroff – The newest dancing star with an astounding blend of contemporary and martial arts in films like War and Baaghi.
- Allu Arjun – The dancing superstar of Tollywood, with a unique desi dance flair in songs like “Seeti Maar” from Duvvada Jagannadham.
- Prabhu Deva – The multifaceted dancing master who choreographed cult hits like “Muqabla Muqabla” and also gave performances like “Kay Sera Sera” from Pukar.
- Malaika Arora – The queen of item numbers like “Chaiyya Chaiyya” from Dil Se and “Munni Badnaam” from Dabangg.
The Evolution of Dance in Bollywood
Dance in Hindi films has undergone a remarkable transformation since the inception of Bollywood in the 1930s. Here is a quick look at how dance evolved in Indian cinema over the decades:
| Era | Style of Dance | Influences | Signature Moves | Iconic Songs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Era (1930s – 1960s) |
Indian Classical Dance | Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Manipuri | Mudras, footwork, facial expressions | “Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya” from Mughal-e-Azam |
| 1970s – 80s | Disco and Cabaret | Western dance forms | Free flowing, groovy moves | “Piya Tu Ab Toh Aaja” from Caravan |
| 1990s | Infusion Era | Bollywood, Western, Indian folk | Energetic, rhythmic, folkish | “Choli Ke Peeche” from Khalnayak |
| 2000s | Contemporary Dance | Jazz, hip-hop, funk | Innovative, synchronized, high-powered | “You Are My Soniya” from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham |
| 2010 – present | Fusion Dance | Indian and Western dance | Grounded Indian with flexible Western | “Pinga” from Bajirao Mastani |
From the grace of Indian classical dance to high-powered modern moves, Bollywood has showcased at all. The dances have also evolved from stage-inspired numbers to more realistic choreography. And as dance in Hindi films continues to evolve, we can’t wait to see what the gods and goddesses of dance come up with next!
The Impact of Dance on Bollywood
Dance holds a special importance in Indian films. The songs and dances are what make Bollywood movies come alive. Just like action and romance, dance is integral to the Bollywood masala. Here are some of the key impacts dance has had on Hindi cinema:
- Dance adds spectacle, drama, and attraction to films. The lavish dance numbers help Bollywood movies retain their unique identity.
- Choreographed songs are opportunities for actors to showcase their skills and captivate the audience.
- Dance injects energy and vibrance into the narrative. The songs often convey emotions that dialogue cannot.
- Dance has launched and established the careers of many actors in Bollywood like Madhuri Dixit and Hrithik Roshan.
- Bollywood dance has become a genre itself with millions of fans trying to emulate the moves.
- Dance draws audiences to theatres and contributes majorly to the commercial success of films.
- Filmi dance has put India on the global map and made it a soft power to reckon with.
In short, dance is as central to Bollywood as the script and stars. It brings the films to life and adds an unparalleled magical quality to Indian cinema.
Significance of Dance for Lead Actors
Being a complete performance art, dance is extremely important for Bollywood actors, especially the lead stars. Here’s why dance holds significance for the top actors:
- Dancing skills let actors showcase their versatility and theatrical range beyond acting.
- Hit dance numbers boost an actor’s star power and make them household names.
- Leading stars often undergo intensive dance training to prepare for films.
- Actors like Hrithik and Tiger immerse themselves fully to deliver flawless dances on screen.
- Heroes dancing effortlessly in elaborate choreographies adds to their charisma and appeal.
- The ability to emote effectively through dance helps actors give convincing performances.
- Dance visuals featuring stars become key for the promotional marketing of films.
- For many lead actors like Govinda, dance plays a major role in shaping their on-screen image.
In Bollywood, the complete performer tag goes to actors who can act, dance, fight, and ride horses with equal finesse. So dance remains a critical skill for leading stars to possess in their repertoire.
Conclusion
To conclude, while Bollywood boasts an array of gifted dancers, a few names like Hrithik Roshan and Madhuri Dixit have clearly earned the stature of being the gods and goddesses of dance in Hindi cinema. Their natural grace, finesse, dedication to the craft, and ability to elevate a simple song-and-dance into an unforgettable cinematic experience make them true legends.
Dance is intrinsic to Bollywood and has evolved enormously over the decades. But some stars have truly set the bar high when it comes to dancing. Their iconic numbers continue to inspire both professional and amateur dancers. So the gods and goddesses of Bollywood dance will keep ruling our hearts as well as the dance floor for generations to come.