Madhuri Dixit recently weighed in on Bollywood’s ongoing debate about working hours. She stated that deciding shift durations should be a personal choice for every artist.
The discussion gained momentum after Deepika Padukone reportedly stepped away from her film ‘Spirit.’ Padukone reportedly demanded an eight-hour workday.
Dixit believes everyone has a different work style. It is not appropriate to impose a single rule on anyone.
She recalled working shifts longer than 12 hours daily during her early career. She emphasized this was her personal decision at the time.
“The film industry has always operated on mutual consent,” Dixit told ANI. “If the producer is ready and the artist agrees, a film is made. Otherwise, there is no compulsion.”
Actress Rani Mukerji previously shared a similar view. She asserted that working hours in the industry are based on discussion and agreement, not pressure.
Dixit also reflected on her defining partnership with legendary choreographer Saroj Khan. Khan was instrumental in refining Dixit’s dance skills.
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“I started Kathak at the age of 3. You don’t just dance, you emote. Abhinay has always been a part of me.”
“Saroj ji and I made a pact never to repeat a single dance movement, which she later regretted.”
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Their collaboration produced iconic dance numbers, including “Ek Do Teen” from ‘Tezaab.’ They also created memorable sequences for ‘Khalnayak,’ ‘Devdas,’ and ‘Anjaam.’
Dixit initially found dancing for the camera challenging. It required precise attention to angles and expressions, unlike stage performances.
Saroj Khan guided her for years, helping her master these subtleties. Dixit considers Khan not just a choreographer, but her guru.
The duo once made a pact never to repeat dance steps in any song. Khan later joked she regretted this, as Dixit remembered every prior move.
The immense success of “Ek Do Teen” even prompted Filmfare to introduce a choreography category. This stands as a lasting testament to Saroj Khan’s artistry.