In the realm of Indian cinema, where creativity and talent converge, one name shines brightly as a multifaceted force that has left an indelible mark on Bollywood’s landscape.
Farah Khan, a director, choreographer, and producer, has carved her own unique path in the world of entertainment.
With a dynamic career over the years, Farah’s innovative choreography and directorial powers have not only set the stage for unforgettable dance sequences but have also woven compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Farah has worked and choreographed remarkable celebrities including Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone and Hollywood pop-star, Shakira.
While talking about her career as a choreographer, Farah shared some insightful details that go beyond the surface of what meets the public eye.
The role of a choreographer, as Farah explains, is as demanding as any other profession, particularly when sculpting performances for individuals stepping onto the public stage. In this regard, she imparts a piece of advice:
“Know your talents – strength is the most important step.
”Knowing what makes the person look good while they are dancing takes precedence over what the choreographer might want to imply’’ says Farah Khan
While dancing may seem easy to some, it is indeed a challenging task but nonetheless, the sensation of rhythm holds the power to uplift spirits and rejuvenate the soul.
The cornerstone of successful choreography, according to Farah, lies in comprehending the essence of the film itself
”Knowing the film.” The mother of three explains. “You need to know the context of the film in order to come up with a choreography. People need to feel connected to the music. The song always dictates what the movie is about and what the characters are trying to portray’’
In today’s hyper-connected digital era, where inspiration can sometimes be elusive, Farah acknowledges the challenge of creative blocks.
Even the most accomplished individuals encounter these hurdles. So, how does Farah Khan overcome such obstacles?
”As mentioned prior, knowing the movie is always the first step of the process. You should know what the audience wants to see. The dance is the last step of the process. It’s boring and can be challenging at times’’
Being a skilled choreographer for many years, Farah has seen it all. From contemporary to classic and traditional. Dancing is dynamic and every-changing.
While some might perceive it as a routine diversion or a way to while away time, Farah pleads to disagree
”Dance and music in particular have been criticised, trivialised and undermined many times. It’s more than just moving your body to a sound. It has the power to make people happy.
”Dance is an invaluable gem within our industry, a quality so distinctive that it elevates our realm of Bollywood. Its value is truly immeasurable’’
In a world where perceptions can often be superficial, Farah Khan’s resolute perspective on dance emerges as a beacon of insight. Her words stand as a reminder that the creative arts hold emotions and narratives, far beyond what meets the eye.
We know that all too well, especially when it comes to her work with Shahrukh Khan and that famous signature pose.
The ‘Main Hoon Na Director’ told Asian Sunday: “By default, that signature pose always comes. Even if you tell him to, it’s like, ‘Meh hoon na bhai’. His hand keeps coming up. I only go out of my house either for Shah Rukh or for Karan to do a song, I can’t be bothered anymore otherwise.”
Farah continued to share her incredible bond with Shahrukh Khan and how over time the passion and work on each song has doubled. Speaking about choreographing King Khan in the song ‘Chaleya’ for Jawan Farah said: “This is the first time he said, 1I want to rehearse before I come on shoot.’ I’ve almost died because in all my 32 years with him, he’s never rehearsed once. But we were short of time and we had only a couple of hours on those locations to shoot. So he was like, ‘I’m going to rehearse the hook step.’ I actually sent my assistants to his house for rehearsal. So that was the first.”
Farah’s legacy serves as an inspiration for artists and audiences who wish to display their talents and leave an inspirational mark on the world.
If you fancy some thumakda with the dance legend herself, then do book on to the London and Leicester Farah Khan workshops which start from 18 August.
