It is by now, common knowledge that Vidya Balan has performed a sensuous item number in Santosh Sivan’s Urmi. But would she be open to doing more such numbers in her future projects as well? Vidya says she would, but qualifies it with an “I wouldn’t want my performance in Urmi to be called an item number.” “It’s a
beautiful, sensual dance number and I am open to doing more of them. Initially, I was very sceptical about such numbers and wondered if the audience would accept me or how I’d go about it… I am very shy in front of the camera. But I love dancing and and will always give it my best. After doing this song, I realised just how beautiful a dance number can look if shot well,” the actress said.
Sivan’s Urmi is set in the 15th century, and the item song is inspired by the dance form of Mohiniattam. Prabhu Deva is the choreographer. “He is so gifted,” enthused Vidya. “The number has a mix of Mohiniattam and belly dancing and I was very worried if I would manage to carry it off. I told Prabhu ‘close your eyes or else I cannot dance in front of you’. He was so helpful. I wouldn’t mind doing such a number again.”
Directors, are you listening?