The fusion of classical Indian art forms with modern Bollywood storytelling has often sparked debate among audiences and cultural experts. While many believe cinema can help introduce traditional dance styles to younger viewers, critics argue that careless or poorly executed adaptations risk diluting the essence of these centuries-old art forms.
Actor Ananya Panday has now found herself at the centre of such a controversy after a dance sequence from her film Chand Mera Dil went viral online. The clip, featuring Ananya’s character Chandni performing a Bharatanatyam-inspired fusion routine during a college reunion scene, has triggered heavy backlash on social media.
In the film, Chandni is portrayed as the daughter of a renowned classical dancer, and the sequence was intended to blend traditional Bharatanatyam with modern hip-hop elements. However, viewers criticised the choreography for its sharp, jerky movements and what many described as a lack of technical grace associated with classical dance.
Several social media users were also upset over the use of a sacred Lord Nataraja idol in the background during the performance. Critics argued that combining devotional imagery with what they called “chaotic pop choreography” appeared disrespectful to the cultural and spiritual roots of Bharatanatyam.
Classical Dance Experts React
The backlash soon extended beyond regular movie audiences, with noted Bharatanatyam exponent and actor Anita Ratnam also criticising the performance online.
Ratnam remarked that the sequence reflected a poor understanding of Bharatanatyam’s technical foundation, which is traditionally built on discipline, precise geometry, controlled expressions and emotional depth. She further said the choreography reduced a refined classical tradition into what resembled a loud wedding dance routine.
Her comments quickly gained traction online, with many users echoing similar concerns about Bollywood’s treatment of classical dance forms.
Film Already Facing Tough Response
The controversy has added to the struggles of Chand Mera Dil, directed by Vivek Singh and backed by Dharma Productions. The romantic drama, which also stars Lakshya, has received a lukewarm response since its theatrical release, with several reviews criticising the film’s storytelling and performances.
Meanwhile, clips of the dance sequence continue circulating across social media platforms despite reported efforts by the production house to remove them through copyright complaints. The debate has once again highlighted the growing demand from audiences for authenticity and proper representation when mainstream cinema draws inspiration from traditional Indian art forms.