The Women’s Commission has come down hard on some dance steps in recent song sequences in films, triggering heated debate in the industry. After receiving several complaints that some of the steps choreographed in films are insulting to women and may harm society, the commission issued a public alert. It has made it clear that film producers, directors, actors, and choreographers are responsible for making sure that such material is avoided in their upcoming projects. The commission has also reiterated that stringent action shall be undertaken in case this continues.
Although no particular film has been specifically mentioned, it is speculated that the controversy is connected to the song “Adida Surprise” from the recently released RobinHood, as well as earlier songs such as Dakku Maharaj and Mr. Bachchan. Interestingly, all three songs have been choreographed by Shekhar Master, putting his work in the spotlight. Although these controversies have inadvertently generated pre-release hype for the films, they have also garnered major criticism regarding the depiction of female characters.
Altering current dance routines might not be possible, but the intervention of the Women’s Commission will hopefully make film directors and choreographers more cautious in the future. Some will probably say that emphasizing dance moves in a song is overkill, but the problem is larger than the movie industry. Millions of young viewers, including kids, replicate these dance routines on social media, further increasing their impact. If these trends are not checked, more choreographers may follow suit, creating a problematic trend in the entertainment sector.
This warning is an eye-opener for filmmakers and choreographers, compelling them to balance creativity and responsible storytelling. It is only time that will tell how the industry will react and whether this will bring about long-term change in dance choreography in mainstream cinema.
