Sudha Chandran Dances Down Memory Lane in a Special Tribute to Master Saroj Khan

When we talk about grace, strength, and artistic legacy in Indian cinema, two names that naturally rise to the surface are Sudha Chandran and Saroj Khan. One, an actress celebrated for her resilience and talent; the other, a choreographer who revolutionised the very language of Bollywood dance. And now, in an emotional and powerful gesture, Sudha Chandran is set to perform a heartfelt tribute to the late Saroj Khan, reminding the world once again that legends cannot be forgotten.

Organised by Maithili Kotnis, a close associate and former assistant of Saroj Khan, this special event — Main Hoon Bollywood — will bring together 60–70 dancers for a three-hour performance on October 12. The grand showcase is designed as a living homage to the woman who taught Bollywood how to feel every movement, every beat, and every emotion through dance.

Sudha Chandran shares her excitement, “This tribute is Maithili’s dream project — a promise she made to her late husband and Sarojji herself. When she invited me, I couldn’t refuse. I will be performing on Sarojji’s first ever choreographed song, ‘Nigahen Milane Ko Jee Chahta Hai’. The rehearsal was a divine experience; I got goosebumps when I visualised Sarojji watching us. Her spirit was present with every step.”

For those who have followed Saroj Khan’s journey, her story remains a beacon of courage and inspiration. In an era when choreography was largely dominated by men, Saroj Khan carved her own space, armed with nothing but raw talent and fierce determination. She redefined what it meant to choreograph a song — every eyebrow raise, every turn of the wrist, every pause became storytelling.

Sudha reflects, “Sarojji came to the industry when choreography was always done by men. She not only found her place but made her mark over the years. There’s so much detailing in her work — every expression matters. She created magic on screen, turning actresses into eternal icons. From Sridevi to Madhuri Dixit, from Meenakshi Sheshadri to Aishwarya Rai, her steps shaped superstars.”

Indeed, many of Bollywood’s most memorable songs owe their magic to Saroj Khan’s unmatched choreography. Whether it was “Humko Aaj Kal Hai Intezaar” from Sailaab, “Ek Do Teen”, “Dhak Dhak Karne Laga”, or “Dola Re Dola”, her dance numbers transcended time — becoming both cinematic moments and emotional experiences.

For Sudha Chandran, this tribute is not just a performance — it’s an emotional fulfilment of a dream she never got to live. “I’ve always regretted not dancing under her direction,” Sudha confesses. “Once, I was part of a Rajshri film where she choreographed a song. I was just standing in the frame — not dancing. I told her later how I wished she had scolded me during rehearsals, like she used to with others. That would’ve been my blessing.”

With Main Hoon Bollywood, Sudha now steps into that cherished space, embodying the essence of Saroj Khan’s artistry through her dance. It’s a moment that bridges generations — the student paying homage to the master, the artist saluting the legend.