Farah Khan Birthday: When Bollywood dance is discussed as mass culture, visual spectacle and storytelling combined, Farah Khan’s name remains unavoidable. As the celebrated choreographer-director turns
61, her body of work feels more relevant than ever.
Farah Khan didn’t just create hit songs — she built pop-culture moments that shaped how Hindi cinema moved, performed and entertained audiences across decades. Her choreography bridged classical rhythm, street energy and cinematic scale, making songs replayable long after their theatrical runs ended.
Here are 10 of Farah Khan’s most iconic choreographed songs that continue to influence Bollywood dance, performance aesthetics and audience memory.
Farah Khan’s Most Iconic Songs That Changed Bollywood Dance Forever
Chaiyya Chaiyya – Dil Se (1998)
Shot atop a moving train, this Shah Rukh Khan–Malaika Arora number turned risk into rhythm. Farah’s raw, grounded movement matched the song’s Sufi intensity, setting a new benchmark for cinematic choreography.
Ek Pal Ka Jeena – Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai (2000)
This song launched Hrithik Roshan as a dancer and superstar. Farah’s sharp, athletic steps became instantly viral before the term existed, redefining the Bollywood male lead.
Dard-E-Disco – Om Shanti Om (2007)
A masterclass in theatrical excess, this Shah Rukh Khan solo fused mirrors, lighting and exaggerated movement. Farah leaned into spectacle while winking at Bollywood’s obsession with image.
Main Hoon Na – Main Hoon Na (2004)
With a massive ensemble cast, Farah showcased her command over symmetry and precision. The playful hook steps matched the film’s tone and became instantly recognisable.
Desi Girl – Dostana (2008)
Priyanka Chopra’s confidence took centre stage as Farah stripped choreography down to attitude and posture. The restraint made the performance unforgettable.
Sheila Ki Jawani – Tees Maar Khan (2010)
Designed for mass appeal, every move was bold, catchy and repeatable. Katrina Kaif emerged as a pop-culture phenomenon through Farah’s self-aware glamour.
Munni Badnaam Hui – Dabangg (2010)
Rooted in folk rhythms and crowd energy, this Malaika Arora hit thrived on simplicity. Farah tapped into desi celebration, turning the song into a wedding and festival staple.
Aankhon Mein Teri – Om Shanti Om (2007)
A softer counterpoint to Farah’s larger-than-life numbers, this romantic track relied on expression and pacing, proving scale isn’t always necessary for impact.
Mast Kalandar – Heyy Babyy (2007)
Loose, chaotic and comedic, this number embraced spontaneity. Farah let humour drive movement, perfectly matching the film’s irreverent tone.
Deewangi Deewangi – Om Shanti Om (2007)
Featuring dozens of Bollywood stars, this song balanced scale with control. Farah transformed a celebrity parade into one of Hindi cinema’s most ambitious dance spectacles.
