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Choreography Icon Danced Through Pain
23 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Saroj Khan choreographed 'Dola Re Dola' while battling severe pain.
- She had to lie on the floor between shots during filming.
- Despite pain, her work on the song won 17 awards.
The creation of the iconic 'Dola Re Dola' from 'Devdas' was marked by the immense dedication of choreographer Saroj Khan, who battled severe pain throughout the 15-day shoot. Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali revealed Khan often had to lie on the floor between takes due to her condition, yet she delivered flawless instructions.
Despite her physical struggle, Saroj Khan's artistic vision remained sharp. She meticulously crafted sequences where both Madhuri Dixit and Aishwarya Rai would shine equally, a challenging task given their differing rehearsal styles. This demanding choreography ultimately became a highlight of 'Devdas' and earned her 17 prestigious awards.
Even as her health declined, Khan's passion for her craft was evident. On the film's release day, while hospitalized, her primary concern was whether her work on 'Dola Re Dola' was being appreciated. Saroj Khan, who passed away in 2020 at 71, left an indelible mark on Bollywood choreography, with 'Dola Re Dola' standing as a powerful symbol of her resilience and brilliance.
