‘New-Age Bollywood Dances Lack the Lachak’, Says Bollywood Choreographer Saroj Khan
Choreographer Saroj Khan, known as Bollywood’s epitome of perfection in dance moves and postures, is upset at the dearth of emotions, grace and ‘lachak’ in present-day film dance numbers.
“Such films lack heart and soul and hence are forgotten in a year or two, unlike the films that had dance and songs that have been immortal over the years. Even after decades, there are songs that are being followed by the new generation, owing to their foot-tapping signature steps,” Khan said. Khan is counted among Bollywood’s most successful choreographers, whose numerous hit dances include “Ek do teen” in “Tezaab” (1988) and “Dola re” in “Devdas” (2003). Her last-released work as a choreographer was in the recent flop, “Kalank”, where she directed the graceful “Tabah ho Gaye” number.
“There have been a few dance numbers that have lived through ages with their beats, ‘lachak’ and emotions. They have been reviving the moods of the public at functions and festivals. However, the current dance moves on screen are just not entertaining. That’s the reason the dance songs of the present era die a silent death after a short life. Earlier there used to be one song on which people of all ages shook their legs at every wedding function, festival, and gathering. Are there such songs coming (out nowadays)?” wondered Khan, speaking at a private event in Jaipur.
She believes dance moves in present-day films have become mechanic, with actors blindly doing what directors say. New-age choreographers, she adds, don’t seem to have a major say in deciding signature steps.
However, Khan is hopeful that these lacunae shall be filled, and soon a new wave of dance and rhythm will return in Bollywood. There is a strong need to bring that ‘lachak’ and emotion into dance, to ensure that songs became a legacy for generations to follow, added Khan. (IANS)