Malaika Arora, one of Bollywood’s most iconic dancers, recently spoke about how item songs in Hindi cinema have changed over the years. In an interview with ‘The Hollywood Reporter’, she said these songs are no longer just about glamour and provocation.
According to her, filmmakers today try to give dance numbers stronger character context, allowing women to “own their space” instead of being objectified. But is that really the case? Or is this “evolution” only true for a handful of films?
Bollywood item numbers
In the 2000s, Bollywood’s item numbers were often designed purely for spectacle, glitzy costumes, catchy beats, and camera angles that focused more on the performer’s body than the performance itself.
Songs like 'Chikni Chameli' and 'Halkat Jawani' became massive hits, but they also reinforced the idea that a woman’s appeal lay in how she looked rather than what her role represented. These songs were rarely linked to the film’s story.
However, in recent years, there has been an effort to change this pattern. Take 'Kamariya' from 'Stree', for instance featuring Nora Fatehi, the song wasn’t just a flashy interlude but an extension of the film’s eerie yet humorous theme.
It reflected how men in small towns perceive women as objects of attraction and mystery, fitting seamlessly into the story’s message about gender dynamics and fear.
These are examples of item numbers that enhance storytelling instead of interrupting it.
The reality behind the change
But while a few songs show this thoughtful integration, many others still rely on outdated formulas. Camera work continues to focus on sensuality, and lyrics often reduce women to decorative figures.
Despite claims of progress, the line between performance and objectification remains blurred.
Malaika’s statement points toward a hopeful direction, that item songs can celebrate female agency rather than exploit it. Yet, it’s fair to question whether this shift is widespread or just occasional.
The bigger question
Have item songs truly evolved, or have they just been rebranded with new words and modern beats? For now, it seems that while Bollywood has made small steps toward progress, true change will come only when every dance number celebrates women as performers, not props.
