MUMBAI: Actress Delnaaz Irani, known for Kal Ho Naa Ho, Bhootnath, and TV shows like Kabhie Kabhie Ittefaq Se, Yes Boss, and Shararat, fondly recalls working with the legendary choreographer Saroj Khan on dance shows like Nach Baliye and Aaja Nachle. Although they didn’t directly collaborate, Saroj Khan was often a judge on Delnaaz's shows, providing her with motivation and confidence.
"After Nach Baliye, there was a show called Aaja Nachle with Saroj Khan. Those were episodics where Saroj Ji would teach a dance and then you would have to perform. I was a part of that show as well. She also came for the finale of Zara Nachke Dikha, a Boys vs. Girls show. Working with her was an incredible learning experience," Delnaaz shared.
Delnaaz admired Saroj Khan's honesty and professionalism. "She was a perfectionist who never minced words. If she liked your performance, her praise was genuine. If not, she didn’t hold back her criticism. She judged with fairness and integrity, without bending to channel pressures or seeking extra footage. I always wished she would choreograph for me in a film but that of course never happened."
Delnaaz felt blessed by her continued connection with Saroj Khan beyond the shows. "Even after the shows, I’d discuss so many things with her. In one of the memorable episodes of Nach Baliye, she referred to me as a "mini Saroj. Her words were full of admiration, and she even whistled in appreciation of my performance, a gesture that truly touched me. That moment created a deeper bond between us, strengthening our chemistry. She supported me and even attended the puja for my short film My Mother’s Wedding. I also worked with her son, Raju Khan, in a film he directed for the Bhatts."
She concluded, "If given a chance, I’d portray her on screen in a heartbeat. Saroj Ji was superb, and she'll forever hold a special place in my heart."
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