Bollywood has long embraced the vibrant culture of Dandiya, incorporating the energetic dance form into many of its films. Often associated with the festival of Navratri, Dandiya Raas is a lively and colorful celebration of rhythm, music, and joy. Over the years, several Bollywood movies have beautifully captured the essence of Dandiya, making it an integral part of the film’s narrative or festive setting. Here’s a look at some iconic Bollywood movies that featured memorable Dandiya dance sequences:
1. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999)
Arguably the most popular Bollywood film to feature Dandiya, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, portrayed the festival of Navratri and Dandiya in its full glory. The song “Dholi Taro Dhol Baaje”, starring Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai, is one of the most iconic Dandiya dance sequences in Indian cinema. With stunning choreography, vibrant costumes, and electrifying energy, the song became a hit and is synonymous with Dandiya celebrations even today.
2. Kai Po Che (2013)
Kai Po Che, based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel The 3 Mistakes of My Life, features a beautiful Dandiya sequence during the Navratri festival. The song “Shubhaarambh”, set in Gujarat, captures the spirit of the festival with lively dance performances and upbeat music. This scene showcases the joy and cultural richness of Dandiya, while also advancing the plot and deepening the bond between the lead characters.
3. Raees (2017)
In Raees, starring Shah Rukh Khan, there is a brief but notable Dandiya sequence during the song “Udi Udi Jaye”. The song blends the traditional Gujarati festival of Uttarayan with Dandiya, featuring colorful kites, traditional dance forms, and vibrant attire. While the film primarily focuses on its intense narrative, this scene provides a festive and celebratory interlude, highlighting the rich cultural setting of Gujarat.
4. Loveyatri (2018)
Loveyatri, a film centered around the festival of Navratri, naturally features Dandiya as a key element of its plot. The song “Chogada”, which became an instant hit, showcases lead actors Aayush Sharma and Warina Hussain dancing to Dandiya during a Navratri celebration. The film heavily incorporates Garba and Dandiya in several sequences, making it one of the most dance-centric Bollywood films focused on the festival.
5. Ram-Leela (Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela) (2013)
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram-Leela featured a visually stunning Dandiya sequence in the song “Nagada Sang Dhol”. Deepika Padukone, who plays the lead role, performs Garba/Dandiya during the song, with grand sets and vibrant costumes making the scene stand out. While the film is an adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, it beautifully integrates Gujarati culture, including the iconic Navratri dances.
6. Dil Hi Toh Hai (1992)
The romantic drama Dil Hi Toh Hai featured an unforgettable Dandiya performance by Jackie Shroff and Divya Bharti in the song “Dil Toh Hai Dil”. The scene captures the essence of a traditional Gujarati celebration, with an emphasis on the colorful and energetic Dandiya Raas.
7. Kalank (2019)
Although Kalank primarily focuses on drama and family relationships, it features a Dandiya-inspired sequence during the song “Ghar More Pardesiya”, where Alia Bhatt performs a semi-classical dance that incorporates elements of Dandiya. The extravagant set and choreography create a mesmerizing visual, blending tradition with Bollywood’s signature grandeur.
Conclusion:
Bollywood’s depiction of Dandiya has significantly contributed to the widespread popularity of this traditional dance form, both in India and abroad. These films not only showcase the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat but also bring to life the joy and communal spirit of Dandiya. Whether it’s the vibrant visuals or the foot-tapping music, these Dandiya sequences have left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences, making Navratri celebrations synonymous with Bollywood dance numbers.
