Madhuri Dixit who is known for her beauty, diverse characters and amazing dancing skills, made her acting debut in 1984 in the drama Abodh. After a few flops, she rose to stardom with the 1988 action drama Tezaab where she appeared alongside Anil Kapoor and with the popular song Ek Do Teen, Madhuri became a household name and was called 'Mohini' for her performance in the film. After Tezaab's popularity, Madhuri rose to stardom and was cast as a leading lady in films such as Dil (1990) with Aamir Khan, Beta (1992), Hum Aapke Hain Koun...! (1994) with Salman Khan and Dil Toh Pagal Hai (1997) alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Karisma Kapoor.
Madhuri Dixit has given numerous famous dance performances in Bollywood and is renowned for her remarkable dance abilities. She is frequently referred to as the dancing queen of Bollywood because of her mesmerising moves, distinctive style, and exquisite expressions. Dhak Dhak Karne Laga from Beta (1992), Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai from Khalnayak (1993), Didi Tera Devar Deewana from Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994), Chane Ke Khet Mein from Anjaam (1994), Maar Dala and Dola Re Dola from Devdas (2002), Aaja Nachle from Aaja Nachle (2007), Ghagra from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013) and Tabah Ho Gaye from Kalank (2019) are some of the songs that feature Madhuri’s amazing dance performances.
She is a trained Kathak dancer, and her dance performances have raised the bar and are still well-liked today. Madhuri has mesmerised the audience in a variety of genres, whether it was with the foot-tapping beats or the beautiful expressions. Her ability to incorporate parts of Indian classical dance with modern forms has enhanced the allure of her dance performances.
On the occasion of her 56th birthday today, we will decode why Tezaab’s Ek Do Teen is still an iconic dance song and what makes it so iconic.
Tezaab is a 1988 action-romance film produced and directed by N. Chandra. It features Anil Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit, Anupam Kher and Chunky Panday. The plot of the film centres on Mahesh, identified as Munna, who is taken away from Mohini and imprisoned. He later returns to seek justice and save Mohini, who is forced to work as a dancer by her alcoholic father in nightclubs.
Check the song here:
In Tezaab, the song features Madhuri's character Mohini performing the song on stage while under duress, despite the fact that her vivacious movements and radiant smile make it appear otherwise. In order to pay off his large debts, Mohini's hedonistic father Shyamlal (Anupam Kher) has been compelled to work as a stage performer. Mohini enters the stage after having a disagreement with her father and engages in conversation with the cheering men there and breaks into dancing before a group of men as she counts down the number of days she has been waiting to meet her beloved.
The song instantly grabs the listener's attention due to its melodic and infectious tune. Featuring Laxmikant-Pyarelal's composition and Alka Yagnik's vocals, the song is vibrant, energetic, and has a rhythm that makes it highly enjoyable. A combination of traditional Indian instruments and modern beats makes it an appealing song. The song is penned by renowned Indian film industry lyricist Javed Akhtar. Beginning with Ek (one), moving through Do (two), and Teen (three), the song's lyrics are based on a playful counting game. The remaining lyrics celebrate and express joy in love. The song's overall appeal is enhanced by the straightforward, catchy lyrics which bring to life a lover’s longing.
Choreographed by the iconic Saroj Khan herself, whose choreography was renowned for its fluidity, grace, and attention to detail. This song features Madhuri Dixit demonstrating her outstanding dancing abilities. With its combination of classical Indian dance and contemporary moves, this choreography revolutionised Bollywood. The graceful movements, intricate footwork, and fluid movements of Madhuri captured audiences' attention and set a new standard for Indian cinema's dance sequences. The song is still remembered to this day because of its hook step.
One of the other most catchy elements of this song is its costume. The song features Madhuri’s Mohini changing her attire at quite a different time throughout the song. But her most notable outfit would be the pink shimmery cropped top with a colourful skirt. She looks exquisite in her yellow scarf that ties her hair along with silver jewellery.
Last but not least is Madhuri herself who performs this song with grace and innocence that makes it more appealing to watch for the audience. It shows her changing into different attire, playing different musical instruments in this seven-minute-long song. Her expressive features, beautiful smile, and superb dance skills captivated onlookers. Madhuri became a role model for young dancers and became a prominent actor in the Hindi cinema business thanks to her ability to seamlessly combine grace, sensuality, and intensity in her performance.
The song earned Alka Yagnik the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer and Saroj Khan the Filmfare Award for Best Choreography. Additionally, it led to Madhuri Dixit receiving a nomination for Best Actress at the Filmfare Awards.
Ek Do Teen is a comprehensive package of alluring music, captivating vocals, magnetising dance choreography, and appealing visual presentation. Its signature dance movements and hook steps have been emulated by dancers on other platforms, further establishing its reputation as a cultural phenomenon. It is still a classic song that exemplifies the talent of the performers involved and had a profound influence on Bollywood dance and music.
See Also: Madhuri Dixit Birthday Special: 10 iconic dance numbers by the Diva that tops our list of favourites
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