Contrary to popular belief, Nora Fatehi is not formally trained in any dance form.
In every performer's journey, there's that one breakthrough project that changes everything. That's a turning point which - besides the fame and money that it brings - also makes everything that follows easier. But before that big break comes, one has to work hard and tirelessly, even without any recognition. And without an iota of doubt, it's in those works that one's raw and unfiltered energy truly shines.
Nora Fatehi is a "dancing sensation" today in Hindi, Telugu, and Malayalam films, with numerous superhit numbers to her credit. Whether it's "Dilbar", "O Saki O Saki”, or "Manike", she has time and again captivated our hearts with her moves. However, not many know about or remember her works before she became a star. So today, on her 33rd birthday, let's revisit some of her early dance numbers where you missed spotting her.
One of Nora's earliest appearances was in the number "Ittage Recchipodham", in Puri Jagannadh's 2015 Telugu film 'Temper'. It's a typical highly energetic Telugu dance number where Nora shone thoroughly with her dazzling moves and expressions. Despite being a newcomer, she showcased her confidence in her performance, which went well at that particular juncture in the film.
Performing a dance number alongside Jr. NTR is not everyone's cup of tea. But Nora did it with perfection.
No one remembers the song or the film - and honestly speaking, it doesn't deserve to be talked about either. However, if there's something that makes it worth watching, it's Nora Fatehi's performance in the number, "Alif Se". She looked absolutely gorgeous here (in her old Bollywood-style costume), and danced brilliantly alongside Gurmeet Choudhary. The choreography was mostly about slow and casual movements, and Nora pulled it off effortlessly. Her contribution was minimal, and she knew that she wouldn't get any recognition - but needless to say, she gave her best.
Notably, the credits of 'Mr X' didn't have the name of Nora. Don't ask why, because - as Nana Patekar said in 'Welcome' - ye raaz bhi usi ke saath chala gaya.
"Manohari" comes at a point in 'Baahubali: The Beginning' where Bahubali and Bhallaldeva visit Sighapura in search of a traitor. Prabhas (Bahubali) is the star of the number, who is joined by three girls - Scarlett Mellish Wilson, Madhu Sneha Upadhyay, and Nora Fatehi.
The number was part of a larger narrative and hence wasn't seen as very important. And it gave Nora little scope to showcase her talent. But what's important to note here is that she took full advantage of whatever space she got. Whether it's her expressive eyes or her graceful gestures - she was simply phenomenal!
Obviously, "Manohari" was more popular than Nora's other early performances. We all noticed her here but never made the effort to find out who she was. Well, she went from strength to strength thereafter, emerging as a sought-after name in India's dance landscape.
Happy Birthday, Nora. Best Wishes For All Your Upcoming Endeavors!
