Top 20 Bollywood Dance Sequences of the Century (So Far)
#20: “Leke Prabhu Ka Naam”
“Tiger 3” (2023)
Bollywood mega-stars Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif take over the stunning landscape of Cappadocia, Turkey, for this upbeat number by Arijit Singh and Nikhita Gandhi. The leading actors of “Tiger 3” move to the steps of choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant, creating a dazzling spectacle, to say the least. The pair has undeniable chemistry, and their screen presence amplifies the already larger-than-life vibe of the sequence. Khan shared in an interview that he considers “Leke Prabhu Ka Naam” ‘one of the best dance tracks’ he has ever done, and we have to agree!
#19: “Tauba Tauba”
“Bad Newz” (2024)
Rapper and singer Karan Aujla’s infectious tune, combined with Bosco Martis’ unforgettable – and viral – choreography, is a surefire way to get fans grooving. Vicky Kaushal and Triptii Dimri, who lead the film “Bad Newz”, deliver a smooth and sultry experience here that will have anyone swooning. Vicky is not only a fantastic dancer, but also exceptionally charming, while Triptii is a temptress through and through. It is virtually impossible to watch this sequence and not attempt the signature step. Now, we might not always get it right, but it’s fun nonetheless!
#18: “Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya”
“Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya” (2024)
Shahid Kapoor has long been recognized as one of the finest dancers in Bollywood. In this number, sung by Raghav, Tanishk Bagchi, and Asees Kaur, the star teams up with the gorgeous Kriti Sanon for a fun fest. Their moves are entertaining, witty, and made waves across India. They’re simple enough that you could easily pick them up, but impressive enough to make you stand out on the dance floor. Extra points if you step out in a shiny sequined suit like Shahid or a bejewelled bodysuit like Kriti. After all, in Bollywood, more is more!
#17: “Aayi Nai”
“Stree 2” (2024)
With musical powerhouses Pawan Singh, Simran Choudhary, Divya Kumar, and Sachin-Jigar on this track, it was always going to be a hit. “Stree 2” leads Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor turn it into an exuberant display of desi swagger. The actors make the steps look effortless, while also imbuing their performance with the specific brand of cheeky comedy the film is known for. The sequence is visually packed, and there are enough supporting dancers to fill the frame, but not a hair is out of place. Needless to say, you might need an energy drink or two if you want to replicate this choreography.
#16: “Aaj Ki Raat”
“Stree 2” (2024)
Amar Kaushik’s horror comedy is about a sinister headless entity called Sarkata preying on women in the town of Chanderi. What’s a show-stopping club banger doing in the middle of such a horrifying situation, you ask? Well, it has an actual narrative purpose. Performed by a character called Shama, played mesmerizingly by Tamannaah Bhatia, the number is meant to lure out Sarkata so it can be destroyed. Unfortunately, the plan doesn’t work, but let’s focus on the positive, that is, Tamannaah. With Vijay Ganguly’s choreography, she sets the scene on fire. The star is the epitome of glamor, keeping things titillating yet tasteful. Meanwhile, Madhubanti Bagchi, who sings for Tamannaah, exudes smoldering seduction through her voice. The result is both entertaining and elegant. We’re obsessed!
#15: “O Saki Saki”
“Batla House” (2019)
This song originally appeared in the 2004 film “Musafir” and was remade in 2019. In the new version, sung by Tulsi Kumar, Neha Kakkar, and B Praak, Nora Fatehi is front and center, captivating audiences with her alluring moves. The number, choreographed by Adil Shaikh, incorporates elements of fire performance and belly dancing, both of which Nora executes with impressive ease. It is also imperative that we give a special shout-out to the actress’s unbelievable core strength, because that gravity-defying signature step in the chorus section is no joke. Add to that the stunning hairography Nora was delivering, and you can see why this sequence was a mega-hit.
#14: “Jai Jai Shivshankar”
“War” (2019)
This dance sequence is kind of a big deal. On the one hand, we have Hrithik Roshan, one of the best dancers in Bollywood. On the other hand, there’s Tiger Shroff, a new-generation dance icon. Both are known for their flawless technique, powerful execution, and limitless swagger. For Vishal Dadlani and Benny Dayal’s “Jai Jai Shivshankar”, they dance together to choreography by Bosco–Caesar, leaving our jaws on the floor. In addition to the dance itself, the theme of Holi, a.k.a the Festival of Colours, adds to the vibrancy of the scene. It is a breathtaking spectacle of epic proportions – one only Hrithik and Tiger could’ve delivered.
#13: “Jhoome Jo Pathaan”
“Pathaan” (2023)
Would this list even be valid without the Baadshah of Bollywood? In “Jhoome Jo Pathaan”, sung by Arijit Singh and Sukriti Kakar, and choreographed by Bosco–Caesar, Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone shake a leg in Spain’s Andalusia. The pair boasts electrifying chemistry and commanding presence, not to mention their irresistible good looks. They’re joined by innumerable supporting dancers, who give the sequence a grand celebratory scale. The choreography became so viral upon the film’s release that it gave birth to a social media trend, where fans worldwide followed the steps. Such is the influence of SRK and Deepika.
#12: “Badtameez Dil”
“Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani” (2013)
If only a reunion with friends in real life came with a party anthem like “Badtameez Dil!” It might help cool things off when you’re visiting friends after being MIA for years. This song could also be your go-to if you want to break into a sweat while having a blast at the same time! And who knew dancing in a suit at a party could both look and be so much fun? While actor Ranbir Kapoor made the whole sequence look effortless, he admitted to rehearsing a lot. Choreographer Remo D’Souza’s hook step for the chorus caught on with dancers so much that charade players would immediately be able to guess what you were doing if you performed it during a game of charades!
#11: “Ghar More Pardesiya”
“Kalank” (2019)
Rarely do we see exquisite Kathak performances in Bollywood songs and it’s also rare to see accomplished dancer-actor Madhuri Dixit NOT dancing in a song. But that’s ‘Ghar More Pardesiya.’ The soulful classical song shows Madhuri Dixit singing while a group of dancers gracefully sway to her vocals. Soon enough actor Alia Bhatt joins the extravaganza and can be seen singing and dancing. The song is actually a musical conversation about love, and the accompanying dance sequence is quite elegant. The graceful movements of the dancers and Alia Bhatt’s expressions lend the song a spectacular visual effect. Not only did Alia practice Kathak for a year, she worked on this particular song for over two months and even consulted legendary Kathak exponent Pandit Birju Maharaj to get her expressions right. As we can see by the final results, all that training was definitely worth the effort.
#10: “Sheila Ki Jawani”
“Tees Maar Khan” (2010)
[‘I know you want it, but you never gonna get it…’] the opening of this song gives enough indication that it’s going to hit us differently - and soon enough we see why! Katrina Kaif thrusts herself boldly at the audience with all her oomph! The song celebrates the confident woman who knows what she’s worth and is happy being by herself. Six costume changes, some acrobatics and Katrina’s sultry charm catapulted this track to an all-time playlist of sizzling dance numbers. The moves choreographed by Farah Khan, especially the hook step, were soon repeated at numerous dancing events. Katrina’s dancing skills also established her as an impressive dancer. Do you think you can pull off the hook step?
#9: “Nagada Sang Dhol”
“Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela” (2013)
Every now and then, Bollywood gives us a song with an incredible symphony of traditional beats that makes its way to a Navratri festival playlist. “Nagada Sang Dhol” not only made its way to the list, but continues to remain there. Deepika Padukone painted the town red with her red-and-gold costume and the endless twirling in this traditional Gujarati folk dance called Garba. Not to mention the fact that she did all this while wearing a heavy ghagra! It was reported that the actor suffered from severe back and shoulder pain and swollen legs while shooting the dance sequence that was meant to bring out the aesthetics of Gujarati culture. The traditional drums, bright colors, extravagant backdrop and passionate dancing turn this high-octane number into a mesmerizing sequence.
#8: “Kamli”
“Dhoom 3” (2013)
In this iconic dance sequence, Sunidhi Chauhan’s inimitable voice meets Vaibhavi Merchant’s striking choreography and Katrina Kaif’s unbeatable star power. The latter brings such grace, charisma, and sensuality to the track that it is impossible to take your eyes off her. Notably, there are no supporting dancers in this sequence. The entire space is owned by Katrina, whose beguiling moves are not only visually pleasing but also incredibly difficult in terms of technique. While the actress allegedly got some help from a body double, the routine was largely performed by her. Kaif is so hypnotizing as a dancer, you almost don’t notice that she’s getting more and more scantily-clad as the number goes on. “Kamli” is a fan-favorite for a reason.
#7: “Chikni Chameli”
“Agneepath” (2012)
Katrina Kaif gave Bollywood ‘Sheila Ki Jawani,’ but then transcended her stature with the Marathi-style Lavani dance number, “Chikni Chameli.” Choreographed by veteran Ganesh Acharya, “Chikni Chameli” gave the actor a tough time as she tried adjusting to the fast beat of the award-winning track. The performance of the song was shot over 10 days and Katrina had to focus not just on the moves, but also on getting the expressions right. This was something the choreographer went on to praise her for later on. Be it moving her hips seductively, dangling from a chandelier or dancing with fire around, there’s a lot of drama and Katrina nails the expressions every time. It may be difficult for the audience to replicate the Lavani style, but once this track is on, it’s hard to not dance to its rhythm.
#6: “Pinga”
“Bajirao Mastani” (2015)
A Marathi folk song turning into a sensational hit doesn’t happen often in Bollywood. “Pinga” from “Bajirao Mastani” did exactly that with two stalwarts in one song – Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra — bringing back vibes of ‘Dola Re Dola’ from “Devdas.” Adorned in sarees with traditional jewelry and hair dos, the actresses shot the song in 12 days. Remo D’Souza’s choreography was brilliant and also a surprise for the audience who were, at the time, used to his Western style of dance. Given that the film is directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, describing the number as having grandeur is still an understatement. Notice how every frame is striking thanks to the backdrop, the traditional costumes, and the scintillating sequence. And it’s yet another song that made it to the list of popular hook steps.
#5: “Dilbar”
“Satyameva Jayate” (2018)
Remaking old songs with contemporary music is not new to Bollywood. Yet not every attempt is a success. Nora Fatehi’s “Dilbar” earns distinction for doing that on an enormous scale. It rocked the YouTube charts, earned several records and mesmerized the audience with sensuous belly dance. Nora, a self-taught dancer, set the screen on fire with some serious belly dancing on the floor, in sand and even in water! The song also made its way to dance challenges on social media. One glimpse of her scintillating moves and you’ll see why! The actor-dancer also choreographed parts of the song besides choreographer Adil Shaikh. The Arabic setting with modern touches, peppy music, seductive vocals, and of course, heaps of sultry movements led to this song getting its place in the best Bollywood sequences.
#4: “Ghoomar”
“Padmaavat” (2018)
If you already gave up the idea of dancing in a lehenga at the next desi party, watch Deepika Padukone in “Ghoomar” for some inspiration and a whole lot of courage. Deepika had to twirl and twist a lot, we mean a loott, for this track choreographed in the Rajasthani dance style of Ghoomar. The dance form itself is known for movements that involve twirling in circles. What made it further challenging is the actor’s massively heavy lehenga and extravagant jewelry. For the song, the actor trained under accomplished dance expert Jyothi D. Tommaar for 12 days. Kudos to Deepika for shooting this song as the first shot of the movie and still wanting to go ahead with the film! The enchanting visuals make it a compelling folk song to watch and even attempt a twirl or two!
#3: “Kala Chashma”
“Baar Baar Dekho” (2016)
Swag, swag and more swag, that’s “Kala Chasma”! How else can someone explain why the song is trending in 2022 with everyone from Norwegian dancers, Peppa Pig, and Demi Lovato making social posts on it?! Although the reels are a remix of the 2016 track recreated by rapper Badshah, the groovy music is still the same and is what has seen an outpouring of love. The song has been put to screen with a mix of vibrant desi and contemporary pop elements. And of course, there’s the Kala Chashma itself, which translates to ‘black sunglasses.’ Actors Sidharth Malhotra and Katrina Kaif exude swag in every frame of the song. The hook step is also a fan favorite. Oh, the best part is that you don’t even have to get the step right as long as you can show off your swag with a pair of black shades!
#2: “Bole Chudiyan”
“Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham” (2001)
Virtually no Indian wedding playlist is complete without this song. In fact, it is so ingrained in Indian pop culture that even Katseye members Lara, Sophia, Yoonchae, and Megan danced to it on social media, earning much love from fans. The OG “Bole Chudiyan” choreography by Farah Khan was performed by Kareena Kapoor Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and the legendary Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan in “K3G”. Amit Kumar, Sonu Nigam, Alka Yagnik, Udit Narayan, and Kavita Krishnamurthy provided the vocals, and there were reportedly 200 supporting dancers on set. The opulent scene showcases the beauty of the Hindu festival of Karva Chauth, and is brimming with playful romance, vitality, and joy. There’s nothing like it!
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“Nashe Si Chadh Gayi”, “Befikre” (2016)
Ranveer Singh and Vaani Kapoor Are Intoxicating in This Number
“Tamma Tamma Again”, “Badrinath Ki Dulhania” (2017)
This Modern Remake of Bappi Lahiri’s Similarly Titled Hit Song from the 90s Is Commendable
“Jhume Re Gori”, “Gangubai Kathiawadi” (2022)
Alia Bhatt Is Incomparably Graceful in This Festive Number
“What Jhumka?”, “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” (2023)
Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt’s Remake of “Jhumka Gira Re” Is Flirty and Fun
“Bhasad Macha”, “Deva” (2025)
Shahid Kapoor and Pooja Hegde Deliver an Explosive Performance
#1: “Dola Re Dola”
“Devdas” (2002)
This dance sequence is peak Bollywood. Set during the grand Hindu festival, Durga Puja, it features a duet between two of the greatest Indian actresses of all time, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Madhuri Dixit. Singers Kavita Krishnamurthy, Shreya Ghoshal, and KK create an operatic foundation for the ceremonial showcase with their vocals. Meanwhile, the award-winning choreography by Saroj Khan is in the Nautwary style, incorporating elements of Kathak and Bharatnatyam, two renowned Indian classical dance forms. The true magic, however, is created by Aishwarya and Madhuri. They look regal in the palatial set, and their heart-fluttering expressions are a scintillating mix of bashfulness and giddy joy. “Dola Re Dola” is so extraordinary that to this day, its impact and cultural significance haven’t been topped.
Who do you think is the best dancer in Bollywood? Tell us in the comments!
