Bollywood dance is a unique style that has evolved over several decades. It is a fusion of various Indian classical, folk, and contemporary dance forms that originated in the Hindi film industry based in Mumbai, formerly Bombay, India. Bollywood dance has its roots in traditional Indian dance forms and has undergone a significant transformation over the years. In this blog, we will explore the history of Bollywood dance and its evolution.
The Early Years
The early years of Bollywood dance were characterized by traditional Indian dance forms, such as Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and Manipuri. Performers were mainly trained in these classical dance forms, and the dances were choreographed to reflect the traditional Indian culture. These dances depicted celebrations, rituals, and worship. The films of this era were often mythological or historical in nature, and the dance sequences were used to tell the story.
The Golden Era
The 1950s and 1960s saw a shift in the Bollywood dance style, with the introduction of Western dance forms, such as Jazz, Rock and Roll, and Twist. Choreographers such as B. Sohanlal, Herman Benjamin, and Suresh Bhatt blended Indian classical dance with Western styles to create a unique Bollywood dance style. This period is considered the “Golden Era” of Bollywood dance, as it was marked by several iconic dance sequences that are still popular today. The film “Chaudhvin Ka Chand” (1960), for example, featured a song and dance sequence that became an instant hit, and the film “Teesri Manzil” (1966) introduced the concept of choreographed group dancing.
Disco and Bollywood Fusion
The 1970s and 1980s saw the influence of disco and funk music in Bollywood films. The dances incorporated a lot of hip movements and synchronized group dancing and were characterized by flashy costumes and sets. Choreographers such as Saroj Khan, who is credited with introducing the sensuousness of Bollywood dance, and Chinni Prakash, who was known for his high-energy dance sequences, emerged during this time. The film “Disco Dancer” (1982) is an iconic example of disco and Bollywood fusion, with its catchy disco beats and dance moves that became a rage in India.
Modern Bollywood Dance
The 1990s saw the emergence of modern Bollywood dance, which incorporated elements of hip-hop, salsa, and other contemporary dance forms. Choreographers such as Farah Khan and Vaibhavi Merchant brought a new style to Bollywood dance, which was marked by innovative and fast-paced choreography, along with a focus on facial expressions and storytelling. The film “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (1995) featured several iconic dance sequences that became an instant hit, and its music is still popular today.
Global Influence
In recent years, Bollywood dance has become increasingly globalized, with choreographers and performers drawing inspiration from various international dance forms. Bollywood dance has been featured in several international dance competitions and has gained a following among non-Indian audiences, with many dance schools teaching Bollywood dance around the world.
In conclusion, Bollywood dance has undergone a significant transformation over the years. From traditional Indian dance forms to a fusion of Western and Indian styles, to the modern Bollywood dance that we see today, it has come a long way. Despite the changes, the essence of Bollywood dance has remained the same — it is still about storytelling through dance, and it still reflects the rich and diverse culture of India.
