Veteran actor Chunky Panday has broken his silence on the backlash surrounding his daughter Ananya Panday's Bharatnatyam sequence in the upcoming film 'Chand Mera Dil'. The dance number, which blends classical Bharatnatyam with contemporary music, has drawn criticism from purists who argue it dilutes the traditional art form.
Chunky Panday's Response
In an exclusive interview, Chunky Panday expressed his support for Ananya's artistic choices. "Art is meant to evolve. Ananya has immense respect for Bharatnatyam, and her performance is a tribute, not a distortion," he stated. He further urged critics to appreciate the effort and creativity involved in blending styles.
Modern Interpretation of Classical Dance
The sequence, choreographed by renowned dancer Shiamak Davar, incorporates elements of Bharatnatyam with modern dance moves. Ananya, who trained extensively for the role, described it as a challenging yet rewarding experience. "I wanted to honor the tradition while making it accessible to younger audiences," she said in a previous interview.
Chunky Panday emphasized that the film's intention is to celebrate Indian culture, not to offend. He noted that many classical art forms have evolved over centuries and that innovation is essential for their survival.
Industry Support
Several industry figures have come out in support of Ananya, including veteran actress Hema Malini, who praised the sequence as "refreshing and vibrant." Choreographer Shiamak Davar defended the fusion, stating, "Classical dance can coexist with contemporary styles; it's about reaching more people."
However, some traditionalists remain unconvinced. Renowned Bharatnatyam dancer Leela Samson expressed concerns about maintaining the purity of the art form, though she acknowledged the need for experimentation.
Ananya's Journey
Ananya Panday, who made her Bollywood debut in 2019, has been steadily building her career. 'Chand Mera Dil' marks her first foray into a dance-heavy role. She underwent months of training under Davar and a Bharatnatyam expert to perfect the sequence.
Chunky Panday concluded by saying, "As parents, we support our children's dreams. Ananya worked incredibly hard, and I am proud of her."
The film is set to release later this year, with the dance sequence already generating buzz on social media. Whether it will win over critics remains to be seen, but the conversation has certainly sparked a debate on the evolution of classical dance in modern cinema.
