Acclaimed choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant has once again made her mark in Indian cinema. At the latest 71st National Film Awards, she was able to add her second National Award for Film Choreography, once again for the spirited dance number “Dhindhora Baje Re” from ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’ featuring Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh!
After ‘Dholi Taro’ Vaibhavi takes home another National Award after 25 years
Vaibhavi received her first National Award 25 years ago, in 2000, for the iconic ‘Dholi Taro Dhol Baaje’ from ‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam’. And, over 20 years after revolutionizing cinematic dance with memorable tracks like ‘Kajra Re’, ‘Aaja Nachle’, ‘Crazy Kiya Re’, and ‘Kamli’, she has another honor to add to her long list of accolades.On August 3, Vaibhavi took to Instagram to share an emotional note, describing the moment as “extremely special.” She wrote, “As an artist, there is no greater honor than being recognized by the government—when they value and celebrate your art. To receive the National Award for ‘Dhindora Baje Re’, 25 years after ‘Dholi Taro’, I am truly overwhelmed and beyond words.”She extended heartfelt thanks to Ashutosh Gowariker, the Chairperson of the Jury, the other esteemed members, and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for recognizing her work. Vaibhavi also expressed deep gratitude to Karan Johar, director of ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’, calling him the man who made it all possible. “Thank you, Karan, for bringing this story to life and allowing me to be a part of something so meaningful,” she said.Vaibhavi’s post was a dedication not only to the cast—including Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan, Shabana Azmi, Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh, and Tota Roy Chowdhury—but also to the innumerable contributors behind the scenes: assistant directors, background dancers, choreographers, technicians, and spot boys. She referenced family, particularly her mother, and defined her as Vaibhavi’s “loudest cheerleader and quietest strength.”
Why Dhindhora Baje Re is special?
What made Dhindhora Baje Re particularly close to her heart, Vaibhavi explained, was its deeper spiritual and artistic essence. “It’s a tribute to Durga Maa and everything she represents—strength, grace, and divine energy,” she shared. She described the choreography process as one filled with purity and passion—a return to classical roots and a celebration of storytelling through movement. According to her, the fusion of tradition and cinema in the song made the experience unforgettable.She also praised the commitment of Ranveer Singh and Tota Roy Chowdhury, who convincingly tried the classical dance form even though they are not trained in the form.“That’s the magic of trust, dedication, and love for the art,” she wrote. “To see them immerse themselves so completely was a joy to witness.” Ending her message on a note of humility and pride, she added, “This award isn’t just for me—it’s for the art form itself.”And with this record, Vaibhavi Merchant once again secures her position among the topmost choreographers in India and proves that good art—created from the heart—stays forever.
