Renowned Bharatanatyam dancer Sonal Mansingh has strongly criticized Bollywood actress Ananya Panday's performance in the song 'Chand Mera Dil' from the film 'Khaali Peeli'. In a recent interview, Mansingh expressed her disappointment, stating that the dance moves in the song mock the traditional Indian classical dance form.
Mansingh's Reaction to the Song
Mansingh, a Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awardee, said that the choreography in 'Chand Mera Dil' does not do justice to Bharatanatyam. She emphasized that the essence of the dance form lies in its grace, precision, and storytelling, which were missing in the performance. 'It is painful to see such a beautiful art form being reduced to mere steps for entertainment,' she remarked.
Ananya Panday's Performance
Ananya Panday, who plays the lead in the film, performed the song with energetic moves that went viral on social media. However, many classical dance enthusiasts joined Mansingh in criticizing the portrayal. The song, composed by Vishal-Shekhar, features a mix of contemporary and classical elements, but experts argue that the classical components were poorly executed.
Importance of Authenticity in Classical Dance
Mansingh further highlighted the need for authenticity when representing classical art forms in mainstream media. 'Bharatanatyam is not just a dance; it is a spiritual practice. When filmmakers use it without proper understanding, it disrespects centuries of tradition,' she said. She urged choreographers and actors to undergo proper training before attempting such performances.
The controversy has sparked a debate on social media, with some supporting Mansingh's views and others defending the creative freedom of filmmakers. However, the incident underscores the ongoing tension between preserving classical arts and adapting them for modern audiences.
