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A tribute to Bollywood "naach-gaana" tradition

The "item number" has probably never been given so much space in a room before. It may be on its way out in some smaller niche movies, but for all Bollywood "hit" movies the song and dance routine is a must-have.

Capturing the best "jhatka" moments of Hindi cinema is an exhibition that brings alive Bollywood's best dances. While the faces have changed over the years from Helen with her blonde wig in "Piya Tuuuuuu... .'', Urmila in her tiny skirt in "Rangeela Re'... ..' and Aishwarya Rai dancing with the two Bachchans in the latest craze "Kajra Re... .'', the item number has come to be a major part of the Bollywood formula.

Film memorabilia of the "mujra" kind, the exhibition being held at Gallery 51, is a tribute to the "naach-gaana" tradition of Bollywood which is usually never taken seriously.

An integral part of the story, whether it was the Elvis-inspired rock and roll numbers of Shammi Kapoor or even the spoofs of old Hindi songs in movies like "Dil Chahta Hai'', a film cannot make it to the box office without a mandatory attempt at getting the hero and heroine to move to music. Paying a tribute to this tradition with a collection of visuals from the mujra, cabaret and item numbers of these times, the exhibition brings alive Hindi movies through the years. The exhibition, a must-see for all Bollywood-watchers, will be on view at the Gallery 51 in New Delhi up to October 7, from 12 noon to 8 p.m. daily. — Mandira Nayar

— Mandira Nayar

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