Saroj Khan turns a year older today, but her grace on the dance floor remains ageless. For over a decade this legendary choreographer gave us some unforgettable dance numbers via the versatile Madhuri Dixit and we can never thank her enough for it.
Here’s our pick of the seven best dance numbers from the inimitable Saroj Khan - Madhuri Dixit jodi:
Ek Do Teen: Tezaab (1988)
Madhuri Dixit shot to overnight stardom after this chartbuster from Tezaab. The song was such a huge phenomenon, that the Filmfare Best Choreography Award was introduced for the first time in 1988, and was given to Saroj Khan. There was no looking back from Saroj or her muse.
Humko Aaj Kal Hai Intezar: Sailaab (1990)
There are innumerable Filmfare awards that Saroj Khan took home and this again is one of them. Madhuri’s dance to Humko Aaj Kal Hai Intezaar in Sailaab became an instant hit. Madhuri’s sensuous moves and expressions make it difficult for us to take our eyes off her.
Dhak Dhak Karne Laga: Beta (1992)
Come 1992 and with Indra Kumar’s Beta, Madhuri became a rage once again. From being the ‘Ek Do Teen’ girl, Madhuri became the ‘Dhak Dhak’ girl. Saroj Khan once again picked up a Filmfare for this one as well.
Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai: Khalnayak (1993)
Just when we thought that things couldn’t get any hotter after Dhak Dhak, Saroj Khan gave us Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai. Madhuri stunned everyone in this number from the 1993 blockbuster Khalnayak. While the song created quite a bit of controversy owing to its lyrics, Saroj Khan made sure Madhuri and Neena Gupta looked elegant and graceful while mouthing them. Madhuri carried off the raunchy lyrics and suggestive dance moves with a grace that is unmatched.
Channe Ke Khet Mein: Anjaam (1994)
If you’re playing dumb charades, this dance step from Channe Ke Khet Mein is enough to lead you to the film’s name. Despite having Shah Rukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit, Anjaam was a forgettable film, however, Saroj Khan’s choreography remains a highpoint.
Mera Piya Ghar Aaya: Yaraana (1995)
Madhuri’s 1995 release Yaraana was another lackluster affair. An atrocious remake of Sleeping With The Enemy (1991), with a rather chubby Rishi Kapoor and ancient Raj Babbar. The only memorable part of the film was Saroj Khan’s energetic moves which made Mera Piya Ghar Aaya a chartbuster.
Dola Re Dola Re: Devdas (2002)
2002 – the year of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Devdas. The film was all about Madhuri’s dance numbers and one of the songs which had both Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri in a dance-off became a popular favourite. Dola Re choreographed by Saroj Khan was a visual delight not just because of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s grandeur but also because of the detailing in the dance routine which was equally balanced between the two divas on screen. Saroj Khan was honoured with a National award for her choreography in Devdas.
We thank the real dancing queen, Saroj Khan, for giving us the Madhuri Dixit we are crazy about. Here’s wishing you a very happy birthday!
(This piece is from The Quint’s archives and was first published on Saroj Khan’s birthday on 22 November, 2015. We bring it back on her big day to celebrate the best of her collaborations with Madhuri Dixit.)
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