Bollywood actress Isha Koppikar has been part of some of the most iconic songs and films of the 2000s, but her journey to stardom was not without struggle. In a recent interview, the actress shared a haunting
memory from the early days of her acting career that left a lasting impact on her. Before making her mark in Bollywood, Isha began her acting career in South cinema. It was during one of her early shoots in the South industry that she faced a deeply humiliating experience.
Recalling the incident, Isha Koppikar told Digital Commentary, “Yes, in one of the South films, I had just begun my career. This is before I entered Bollywood. When I was on set, there was a lot of dancing. You know how South dances are — they are not easy. But in my first film, mere choreographer ne mujhe sabke saamne bola ki yeh Bollywood se ladkiyan aati hai, pata nahi kyun le lete hain inko. Kuch aata hi nahi inhe.”
‘He Humiliated Me’: Isha Koppikar
The actress went on to share how the choreographer’s words in front of the entire crew affected her. She continued, “He humiliated me. I don’t know if he was under some pressure. And he said dance nahi aata toh yahan kyun aayi ho? I felt very bad and humiliated. I went back to my make-up room and I cried.”
Isha Koppikar Decided To Learn Dancing
But determination and hard work are Isha’s strengths. She took it as a challenge and decided to return to South only after learning how to dance. “I won’t let anyone talk like that again.” She concluded.
After the harsh criticism, Isha Koppikar reached out to the chief assistant of legendary choreographer Saroj Khan and began training. She continued practising at home, pushing herself to become better. Her efforts paid off when she starred in the hit number Khallas from Company (2002), a song that made her an overnight sensation. Soon, she rose to fame as ‘Khallas Girl’, earning applause for her bold dance numbers and strong screen presence. Later, she also won hearts with her performances in songs like Ishq Samundar, Aankhen Maarein and Aaj Ki Raat from the film Don.
