Jaaved Jaaferi recalls Prithviraj Kapoor's personality as 'IBD' team talks about 1931 release 'Alam Ara'
Mumbai, June 2
The upcoming season of 'India's Best Dancer' turned was seen turning into a nostalgic celebration of Bollywood's rich dance heritage as judges Jaaved Jaaferi, Terence Lewis and host Haarsh Limbachiyaa reflected on the evolution of dance in Indian cinema, further talking about Alam Ara, the first talkie movie in Hindi cinema.
During the conversation, Haarsh posed an interesting question to the judges, asking which Bollywood film first showcased a glimpse of dance on the big screen.
He further said, "Main bata deta hoon, Hindustan ki pehli film jisme dancing ki pehli jhalak dikhayi di thi woh film thi 'Alam Ara', jisme Prithviraj Kapoor ji the. Tab unhone yeh nahi socha hoga ki aage chalke unki great-granddaughter Karisma Kapoor Bollywood dance ka chehra ban jaayegi."
Post the mention of 'Alam Ara', the discussion then shifted to the Kapoor family's contribution to Indian cinema, prompting Jaaved Jaaferi to fondly remember the legendary Prithviraj Kapoor.
Talking about Prithviraj Kapoor, Jaaved said, "I remember Prithviraj Kapoor ji, and after that Raj Kapoor ji, Shammi Kapoor ji and Shashi Kapoor ji. All of them had incredible screen presence and personality. Prithviraj Kapoor ji, in particular, had one of the most impressive personalities and physiques."
Adding further perspective, Terence Lewis highlighted the contribution of classically trained actresses to Bollywood dance. He said, "If we talk only about the film industry, then Vyjayanthimala was one of the best. The actresses from the South, whether it was Hema Malini, Sridevi ji or Vyjayanthimala, had incredible technique and training. Thanks to their classical dance training, they took Bollywood dance to a whole new level."
He added, "Then, when Madhuri Dixit came along, she brought a new vibrancy to it; her expressions were amazing. And Karisma Kapoor added such a distinctive filmy touch to dance."
Talking about Prithviraj Kapoor, the actor was the main lead in the India's first talkie e, 'Alam Ara' that released in 1931.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I appreciate the nostalgia, but I wish the discussion had acknowledged the contributions of regional cinema more. Vyjayanthimala and Hema Malini are rightly mentioned, but what about dancers like Waheeda Rehman or Padmini? They brought incredible Kathak and Bharatanatyam to Bollywood too. Still, nice to see IBD giving some history lessons.
As someone who grew up in the US but with Indian parents, this is fascinating. I never knew "Alam Ara" had Prithviraj Kapoor! It's incredible how Bollywood dance evolved from those early days to the energy of Madhuri and Karisma. India's dance heritage is truly special.
Jaaved ji's respect for Prithviraj Kapoor is genuine—you can see it in his eyes. The old guard actors had that "aura" which is rare today. Shammi Kapoor's energy, Raj Kapoor's showmanship... they were larger than life. Good episode, brings back memories for us old-timers! 😊
Terence Lewis always adds such thoughtful analysis! He's right about classical training—those dancers didn't just move to music, they embodied it. Sridevi, Hema Malini, Madhuri—each brought something unique. The Kapoor legacy is unmatched, from Prithviraj to Karisma. Lovely tribute on IBD. 🌟
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.