Netizens call out B-town copycats

While some people are shrugging it off as harmless, others are calling it a blatant imitation, sparking the age-old Bollywood debate: When does “inspiration” become “copying”?

Iconic Moves

Bollywood is known for its over-the-top dance numbers, which often become just as famous as the movies themselves. Certain moves and songs have a special place in Indian pop culture. Think of Madhuri Dixit’s Ek Do Teen steps, Shah Rukh Khan’s signature arm spread in DDLJ, and yes, Aishwarya’s sassy strut and spins in Crazy Kiya Re.

According to dance movement therapy practitioner Masuma Vagh, different dance styles profoundly influence the emotional and psychological experience of the performer. “Classical dance forms focus on storytelling through gestures and facial expressions, which help dancers connect with emotions like love, sorrow, or devotion. Folk dances often evoke joy, festivity, and community spirit, while modern styles like Hip-Hop and Jazz help the dancer to express freedom, swag, and self-confidence," says Masuma.

Tribute vs Reboot

In Akhiyaan De Kol, Kriti Sanon brings her flair, but fans couldn’t help noticing similarities between her moves and those from Crazy Kiya Re. Was it intentional? Kriti hasn’t directly responded, but her performance certainly has the Bollywood internet divided. Some fans love that she’s bringing a little bit of Aishwarya’s unforgettable energy into the spotlight. Others feel it’s a bit too close for comfort. To be fair, Bollywood loves a good tribute. Stars often bring back famous moves or scenes from older movies. It’s a form of respect, a way of saying, “Hey, I loved this, and it inspired me!” But it’s a fine line – if there’s no twist or personal touch, tributes can quickly slide into the “copy” zone.

Inspiration & Imitation

Directors, choreographers, and actors are constantly finding ways to put a fresh spin on classics. One main difference between inspiration and imitation is personal style. When an actor or choreographer takes a classic move and adds a twist, it’s generally appreciated. But if it’s a straight-up reproduction – and fans can pick up on it immediately.

Masuma highlights how body language and expressive movement impact the connection between the dancer and the audience: “High-energy performances captivate and maintain audience attention. Nonverbal communication, like a subtle tilt of the head, a slow hand gesture, or an intense gaze, can convey complex emotions and thoughts. Performers like Kriti and Aishwarya use lively body language to convey confidence and joy, which can uplift and energize the audience, leaving a lasting impression."

Constant Scrutiny

In the past, Bollywood stars were largely shielded from real-time criticism. Today, however, social media gives everyone a voice and, unfortunately for stars, every one an opinion – often served with a side of sarcasm. So, how can Bollywood stars pull off tributes without facing the wrath of the internet? One approach is to make sure that any homage is reimagined rather than simply rehashed. Masuma Vagh believes “Fusion choreography challenges dancers to stretch beyond their comfort zones, blending styles and emotions. It requires dancers to remain mentally engaged as they switch between contrasting movements and rhythms, making it feel both familiar and fresh for the audience.”

For example, think of Deepika Padukone’s Ghoomar dance in Padmaavat. While the dance paid tribute to traditional Rajasthani folk dance, Deepika and her team added a modern Bollywood touch, giving it a unique feel that was widely praised.

Fans and Stars

Bollywood fans are famously nostalgic – they love seeing references to classics, especially if they grew up watching those films. But they also want to see new talent bring something fresh to the table. It’s a delicate dance, one where stars need to acknowledge Bollywood’s legendary past while carving out a niche for themselves.

As Bollywood continues to evolve, stars will keep experimenting with references to the past while crafting the dances that will inspire the next generation.