Did you know Dixit is a trained Kathak dancer?
"When I got Madhuri, that's when I became famous." - Saroj Khan (Choreographer)
During her prime, Madhuri Dixit could make all the men go weak in the knees with just a twinkle in her eyes. She is an epitome of grace, elegance, and versatility, and it wouldn’t be even an iota of exaggeration to say that she has had no competition throughout her career. And more than her roles, it's her unparalleled dance skills that set her apart. She is, as Saroj Khan said, a "choreographer's delight", and her dance is not just a sight to behold but an experience to cherish for viewers.
The 'superstar' is a trained Kathak dancer. Pandit Birju Maharaj, who choreographed Dixit in Devdas, called her "the best Bollywood dancer" due to her versatility. But it's not just the classical dance that she excels in; she is equally good in Western dance forms, having effortlessly bridged the gap between the two in her performances. She has been part of numerous dance numbers over the years, several of which have gained cult status.
(Credit: madhuridixitnene)
"Dance is a spiritual experience for me, where I feel close to art, nature. When I do Kathak, folk, a semi-classical dance form, or even hip-hop, I feel I'm part of a culture. It's an enriching, learning feeling." - Madhuri Dixit
Madhuri Dixit and Shriram Nene on ‘Dance Deewane’
On the occasion of Dixit's 57th birthday, let's have a look at her best dance numbers in this article.
The list must begin with "Ek Do Teen" as it’s this number that catapulted Dixit to stardom. Featured in the 1988 film 'Tezaab', "Ek Do Teen" showcased what Dixit is truly capable of, solidifying her status as one of the industry's finest dancers. The incredible fluidity with which she moved from one step to another, coupled with her pitch-perfect expressions throughout the sequence, continues to give us goosebumps. (Credit: Gaane Naye Purane)
Saroj Khan was the mastermind behind the number. And its success led to the creation of a new category of award at the Filmfare - Best Choreography.
"Dhak Dhak Karne Laga" from 'Beta' (1992) became a sensation during the early 1990s, earning Dixit her moniker "Dhak-Dhak Girl". Her appearance in a gorgeous bright yellow ensemble and her moves literally set fire on the screen, making people come back to the theatre again and again. She effortlessly embodied the sensuality of the song in her moves, conveying a wide range of emotions that continue to leave one and all in awe. And her chemistry with her co-star Anil Kapoor added another layer to the performance.
(Credit: Shemaroo Filmi Gaane)
Bappi Lahiri's music, Saroj Khan's choreography, and Madhuri Dixit - Sanjay Dutt on the screen - "Tamma Tamma" from the 1990 film 'Thanedaar' is a complete package of entertainment that we still can't get over. Dixit's moves perfectly complemented the rhythm of the song, and her innate charisma took the entire number to a whole new level. On the other hand, her chemistry with Sanjay Dutt was absolutely spot-on and continues to give us butterflies in the stomach.
(Credit: Salaru Mithuro Studio)
An interesting trivia: Sanjay Dutt rehearsed for 16 days straight for "Tamma Tamma". Reason? Of course, Madhuri Dixit. In his words, "I remember the time when I was asked to match steps with Madhuri Dixit while shooting for the song Tamma Tamma. As soon as I found out I was so nervous because I dance like a crow and I had to perform alongside Madhuri who is known for her dancing. To perfect the steps, I rehearsed for 16 days straight. I was still apprehensive to perform but finally, I did it."
The list obviously doesn't end here. Besides these, it also includes "Choli Ke Peeche", "Didi Tera Devar", "Dola Re", " Ghaghra", and "Aaja Nachle" among others.
