Filmmaker Priyadarshan recently spoke about his film Bhool Bhulaiyaa and shared an interesting memory related to one of its most popular songs, “Mere Dholna”. In a conversation, he talked about how Vidya Balan prepared for the song despite doubts about her dancing skills.
Priyadarshan said that there was a time when people believed Vidya could not dance well. He also mentioned that choreographer Farah Khan had once told her the same. However, Vidya decided to take it as a challenge and worked hard to improve. Talking about her effort, he said to Variety India, “There was a time when people used to think that Vidya (Balan) could not dance. And she told me, ‘I will take it as a big challenge.’ Vidya practised for 35–40 days just to do this song.”
He further explained that Vidya was performing alongside Vineeth Radhakrishnan, who is known for his strong background in classical dance. Despite that, she managed to match his energy in the performance. Priyadarshan recalled, “She matched his energy. And one day, Vidya came and told me, ‘I will never forget this song in my life because someone who once told me I cannot dance, Farah Khan, has appreciated me for it.’ And Shobhana was also called and praised. She said, ‘I will never be able to repeat it, but this is the best thing you have done for me.’ So this is something I remember very well.”
The song “Mere Dholna” went on to become one of the most well known songs from the film. Vidya Balan’s performance in the sequence, especially her portrayal of the character Manjulika, was widely appreciated and is still remembered by audiences.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa, directed by Priyadarshan, is set around a haunted palace and mixes elements of suspense, psychology and comedy. The story follows a couple who return to their ancestral home and begin to experience strange events. A psychiatrist, played by Akshay Kumar, is brought in to understand what is happening, leading to a mix of mystery and humour.
Over time, the film has remained popular for its story, performances and music, with Vidya Balan’s role continuing to stand out as one of its most memorable parts.