What metaphor did Ram Gopal Varma use to guide Urmila Matondkar for 'Tanha Tanha'?

Ram Gopal Varma advised Urmila Matondkar to channel an 'exotic wild animal' to perform the song without inhibition.

How did Ram Gopal Varma help Urmila Matondkar overcome her inhibitions for Rangeela?

Varma encouraged her to focus on feeling beautiful and confident, likening her to an animal shedding awareness of the camera.

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RGV: Urmila's 'Tanha Tanha' Fear, Wild Animal Shift

Q: Why was Urmila Matondkar hesitant about the 'Tanha Tanha' song in Rangeela?

Urmila Matondkar was initially hesitant due to her conservative upbringing and discomfort with on-screen exposure, as detailed by Ram Gopal Varma.

12 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Urmila Matondkar was hesitant to perform 'Tanha Tanha' due to conservative upbringing.
Director Ram Gopal Varma likened her to an exotic wild animal.
Matondkar performed the iconic song with complete freedom and no inhibition.

RGV: Urmila's 'Tanha Tanha' Fear, Wild Animal Shift

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma discussed the making of the 1995 classic Rangeela, focusing on Urmila Matondkar's performance in the song 'Tanha Tanha.' Varma recalled Matondkar's initial hesitation, stemming from her conservative upbringing and discomfort with on-screen exposure.

Drawing inspiration from Hollywood musicals, Varma emphasized attitude over attire. He advised Matondkar to embrace a sense of pride and beauty in her performance. To overcome her apprehension, he used the analogy of a playful puppy or an exotic wild animal, urging her to forget the camera and crew.

This unique approach proved transformative, allowing Matondkar to fully embody the character with confidence and freedom. Her uninhibited performance in 'Tanha Tanha' became a defining moment in the film and her career, showcasing the power of trust and instinct in filmmaking.