Madhuri Dixit’s career has had many defining moments. All through her professional life, she’s been revered and worshipped for being a gifted dancer. The fact that she ruled the roost in Indian cinema from 1989 to 2002, the very fact that her career has several iconic songs is enough to endorse her prowess in dance. Right from Madhubala to Vyjayanthimala, Rekha to Sridevi... there have been great dancers in Hindi cinema. But Madhuri’s proclivity for dance remains unparalleled. Almost every film that she featured in was designed to get the best of her dancing skills. Notions like poetry in motion and heavenly seem like understatements compared to her grace and elegance. The bliss of a dervish, the exhilaration of an artiste, her expressions in perfect sync with the rhythms… Madhuri Dixit was a rhapsody on reel. That she’s got as much quantity as quality in her show reel just proves that she truly justifies her legendary status…

1. Ek Do Teen – Tezaab

The song that put Madhuri on the global map. Ek do teen from Tezaab was that hot sensation that predated the viral video and YouTube generation, but it caused as much a stir, if not more. This song showcased Madhuri’s talent with the moves. This blazing dance number was the precursor to all that was to come.

2. Humko Aaj Kal Hai – Sailaab

Trust Madhuri to add oomph to the folksy koli dance. This naughty fisherwoman’s jig featured Madhuri at her gyrating and seductive best. It helped that Bappi Lahiri’s tune was catchy. But seldom had Hindi movies managed to pack in as much excitement as Madhuri’s mid-riff mayhem in Humko aaj kal hai intezaar.

3. Chane Ke Khet Mein – Anjaam

Madhuri has done her fair share of ghagra-choli dance numbers. Some have been iconic while others have been trusted hits. But Chane ke khet mein from Anjaam was that defining number that was possibly more popular than the film itself. This infectious number had great energy and spunk, all thanks to some vivacious dancing by MD.

4. Dhak dhak – Beta

If Ek do teen, was her debut to stardom, Dhak dhak from Beta slalomed her to the top. Scores of people; men, women, children and entire villages too, flocked to theatres to not just watch the film, but to see Madhuri Dixit dance. In this seductive and naughty number, Madhuri’s swaying back served up some red-hot thrills. This song became her moniker as it immortalised the Dhak dhak girl in Hindi cinema.

5. Choli Ke Peeche – Khalnayak

There could have been no Choli ke peeche legend without Madhuri Dixit. When she slowly lifts the veil in the song, it opens the floodgates of imagination. The lyrics compel you to picture what the choli conceals, and Madhuri’s seductive moves pump your quintessential adrenaline. One of the most iconic songs in Hindi film history, it titled MD as the undisputed dancing queen.

6. Didi Tera Devar – Hum Aapke Hain Koun…!

The purple saree, the teasing gestures, Didi tera devar deewana from Hum Aapke Hain Koun…! made Madhuri an icon for Indian families. This naughty and fun song featured a ladies sangeet evening from the quintessential Indian wedding. Till date, the funky number is the flavour of sangeet ceremonies.

7. Oye Oye – Tridev

Not to be confused with Tirchi topiwale where Naseeruddin Shah found his groove. Oye oye, a special track from Tridev, featured a young Madhuri matching steps with Sangeeta Bijlani and Sonam. Veteran Amrish Puri was grooving in this number too. But no one leaves as much of an impact as MD. In an Arabic belly dancer’s garb, she appeared more exotic than the Bahamas.

8. Tamma Tamma – Thanedaar

Not nearly as popular as Amitabh Bachchan’s similar sounding Jumma chumma from Hum, Tamma tamma loge is still one of the hottest dance tracks. Sanjay Dutt and Madhuri absolutely scorched the stage in this sensational number. Their rockstar outfits, funky hairdos and synchronised dancing got the audiences’ grooving. No wonder its remix was a hit in Badrinath Ki Dulhania this year too.

9. Dola Re Dola – Devdas

When Aishwarya Rai matches steps with Madhuri, the results is bound to be spellbinding. Dola re dola from Devdas was a certified hit. Both the leading ladies danced with great tempo and made this catchy song a rage. Madhuri, as the prostitute Paro, made seduction sublime.

10. Arre Re Arre – Dil Toh Pagal Hai

This romantic number from Dil Toh Pagal Hai features a melange of dancing styles and narrative techniques. In a montage of various
moods, Madhuri and Shah Rukh Khan shuffle between coordinated stage dancing to swaying in chiffon with consummate ease.

11. Dil Toh Pagal Hai – Dil Toh Pagal Hai

Exotic foreign locations, a handsome Akshay Kumar as co-dancer, Madhuri had the perfect canvas to excel in the Dil Toh Pagal Hai title track. In a film based on dancers, MD was right at home.

12. Pyar kar – Dil Toh Pagal Hai

This dreamy bedroom number featured Madhuri in an all-white glossy avatar with lacy lingerie. It felt intimate and sparkly; where Madhuri’s delicate dancing made the song a stellar number. It also featured SRK and Karisma Kapoor but it was MD’s moonlit magic that worked wonders.

13. Dholna – Dil Toh Pagal Hai

Lovers, flowing sarees and the picturesque Swiss countryside… Dholna was the quintessential romantic number from Yash Chopra. The dancing was a casual affair here, just like SRK’s and Madhuri’s easy breezy chemistry... blending into the surreal landscape.

14. Maar Dala – Devdas

If Rekha has In aankhon ki masti mein (Umrao Jaan) and Madhubala has Pyar kiya toh darna kya (Mughl-E-Azam), Madhuri has Maar dala from Devdas. This mehfil based number has all the kathak authenticity that you’d expect from MD – not to mention the Meena Kumari like anguish. We don’t blame SRK and Jackie Shroff for being totally mesmerised.

15. Wah Wah Ramji – Hum Aapke Hain Koun!

That ‘family’ dance number where you can have some clean fun and frolic with your mother, sister and your favourite aunt! Wah wah Ramji was another wedding staple from Hum Aapke Hain Koun…! that continues to flourish on the Indian wedding scene. Her ethnic costume fuelled fashion trends.

16. Mayi Ne Mayi – Hum Aapke Hain Koun…!

Trust Sooraj Barjatya to add a spin to the traditional antakshari scenario. Mayi ne mayi from Hum Aapke Hain Koun…! was just that
inspired number. Madhuri’s understated but brilliantly executed dance moves in this soft and slow number were pitch perfect. The orange salwar kameez added to her beauty.

17. Dhiktana Dhiktana – Hum Aapke Hain Koun…!

A perfect balance of modern spunkiness and traditional sensibilities, Dhiktana dhiktana featured both Madhuri and Salman Khan in monotone all-black avatars, with some groovy dance moves. It was a break from the wedding inspired themes of the film and a great addition to Madhuri’s oeuvre.

18. Pehla Pehla Pyaar Hai – Hum Aapke Hain Koun…!

This moody romantic number was a dreamy fare, but one set-piece in it made it a must have on this list. When Madhuri and Salman Khan dance at the poolside, their moves are an eclectic combination of ballroom and ballet dancing. It’s another glorious feather in MD’s cap.

19. Joote Do Paise Lo – Hum Aapke Hain Koun!

The Salman Khan-Madhuri Dixit chemistry in Joote do paise lo from Hum Aapke Hain Koun...! was one of a kind. Her green ghagra choli and his designer vest, the song and its fun-filled traditional concept of stealing the bridegroom’s shoes at an Indian wedding was a celebration of the yin and yang.

20. Dam Dama Dam – Dil

For the major part, this staple ’90s dance number features Aamir Khan in his most energetic dancing shoes. But once Madhuri joins in the fun, the entertainment value of Dam dama dam just skyrockets into space.

21. Bada Dukh Dina – Ram Lakhan

With its faux mujra design, Bada dukh dina from Ram Lakhan was one of the earlier hits where Madhuri established her image as a stellar dancer. And she never looked more beautiful. MD aced both the vulnerability and fire of a woman in love.

22. Kay Sera Sera – Pukar

With this Madhuri went beyond her traditional stylised dance moves. Not only did she match steps with Prabhudheva, she emulated his energetic moves and held her own in the contemporary and racy choreography.

23. Ankhiyan Milaon – Raja

One of the biggest hits of her career, Ankhiyaan milaon from Raja fared a lot better than the film. This spunky dance number had great rhythm and MD danced with a girl-like verve and zest. Her energy even inspired Sanjay Kapur to match her steps

24. Dil Lene Ki Rutt Aayi – Prem Granth

Mountains, valleys and Madhuri Dixit in a village belle form. Dil lene ki rut aayi featured MD and Rishi Kapoor dancing in the hills and the effect of this traditional number was enthralling.

25. Sanson Ki Mala Pe – Koyla

Shah Rukh Khan on the drums, Amrish Puri in an evil avatar and Madhuri Dixit dancing like a diva. Sanson ki mala pe may not have been the most popular song in the Koyla album, but MD’s superlative dancing made this part Sufi-part romantic number a popular hit.

26. Badi Mushkil – Lajja

Slightly old school and but high on energy, Badi mushkil was a statement song. Madhuri Dixit in a yellow saree, scores of background dancers to pitch in, this song from Lajja was a highlight in this crusade of a film.

27. Hum Tumhare Hain – Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam

While this title track from Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam didn’t feature any ground breaking efforts from Madhuri, it did have sizzling chemistry between Shah Rukh Khan and her. She didn’t have killer dance moves, but the expressions were enough to make this romantic number hit home big.

28. Ghagra – Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani

Madhuri made a stunning comeback with the hoots and whistles number Ghagra in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. This special appearance sort of a song had Madhuri in traditional attire sharing kickass chemistry with an ebullient Ranbir Kapoor.

29. Tu Shayar Hai – Saajan

Possibly one of the biggest hits of ’90s, Tu shayar hai from Saajan was a certified chartbuster. Madhuri featured in this song, performing on stage while Sanjay Dutt, her paramour admires her from the sidelines. Her pitch perfect dancing not only drew the hero but also leagues of her fans.

30. Mera Piya Ghar Aaya – Yaarana

A strange mix of traditional dancing and contemporary Western dance moves, Mera piya ghar aaya from Yaarana was added to the film later. Madhuri’s performance was ably supported by some glitter and confetti. The exuberance matched her expressions.

31. Kehdo Ki Tum Ho Meri – Tezaab

While this song didn’t have the usual foot tapping music, Kehdo ki tum ho meri featured intensity and even a lip to lip kiss between Anil Kapoor and Madhuri. The sight of winds blowing, while she sashayed up a storm of emotions was truly memorable.

32. Nazrein Mili Dil Dhadka – Raja

Wearing an oversized white kurta and looking like an absolute goofball, Madhuri had a funny avatar in this fun-filled number from Raja. In spite of the oddball appearance, her measured dancing and easy expressions, made MD so attractive.

33. Allah Allah Mera Dil Dhadke – Yaarana

The quaint European town backdrop and Madhuri’s red saree with a designer blouse was the perfect mismatch. But that was the intentional design of Allah Allah mera dil dhadke where MD and her slightly over-the-top dancing created fun and tease in the romance with Rishi Kapoor.

34. Payal Meri – Rajkumar

The chemistry between Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit in Payal meri from Rajkumar is almost as good as that in Dhak dhak from Beta. While this song was quite popular back in the day, the film didn’t set the box-office on fire. Despite having the proverbial oomph and chutzpah, this song remains a forgotten gem.

35. O Rabba Koi Toh Bataye – Sangeet

While Madhuri was no stranger to classic dances with opulent dresses and settings, what made O rabba koi toh bataye from Sangeet unique was that, here she played a blind girl. Her high on enthusiasm dancing added the perfect touch to her naive disposition towards love.

36. Makhna – Bade Miyan Chhote Miyan

Colourful, slightly garish and wonderfully over-the-top, Makhna from Bade Miyan Chhote Miyan was a true indicator of all the fizz and pop that made ’90s cinema. Madhuri matched beats and moves with Govinda and Amitabh Bachchan in this perky number. It was a masala movie moment for sure.

37. Aaja Nachle – Aaja Nachle

The big Madhuri Dixit comeback in 2007, Aaja Nachle was a film built around the dancing prowess of its lead star. In hind sight, Madhuri’s performance in the title track was like an eclectic mix between her efforts in Devdas and in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. An odyssey that represented all things Madhuri.

38. Tu Gori Patli Paan – Kanoon Apna Apna

Chances are you’ve not really heard about this song from 1989. But Tu gori patli paan from Kanoon Apna Apna is one of the earliest numbers from Madhuri’s career. This surprise entry is essential because it features a young MD living it up with Sanjay Dutt, who’s not exactly dancing for compliments. Both actors are having fun in this frivolous but snazzy number.

39. Saal Ke Barah Mahine – Phool

This number features Madhuri with killer curls and a no-inhibition jazz. While the song looks like a heady cocktail between Ek do teen and Sridevi’s Hawa hawai, Saal ke barah mahine is a colourful and fun memory from MD’s glorious career.

40. Aap Ko Dekh Ke – KishEn Kanhaiya

This one is one of the trippiest numbers to feature both Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit. Aap ko dekh ke has some wonderful robotic/break dance moves, a catchy tune and two actors thoroughly enjoying their filmi performance.

41. Paalki Mein Hoke Sawar – Khalnayak

A standard village belle performance, Madhuri in Paalki mein hoke boogies with complete surrender as Sanjay Dutt drives her away in a bullock cart. It was certainly unique to have a dance intertwined with a rustic road trip.

42. Laila Marr Gayi – Uttar Dakshin

Another lesser known entry to this list, Laila marr gayi from Uttar Dakshin is unique because it features Madhuri in a Mandakini avatar from Ram Teri Ganga Maili – in a white saree, drenched in water. The song later transitions into a pots-pans-and-statues sort of a dance.

43. Dil Toh Dil Hai Dil Ka Kya Hai – Zindagi Ek Juaa

Another rare gem from the ’90s, Dil toh dil hai is a song instantly remembered for its tune and Asha Bhosle’s lovely vocals. But this naughty song is also high on imagination and features a ravishing Madhuri dancing to tease a straight-faced Anil Kapoor.

44. Sajan Sajan Teri Dulhan – Arzoo

This staple ghagra choli number about a shy girl expressing her love is trademark Madhuri Dixit. The great thing about the song is that it features Madhuri with a group of background dancers. The emotional arc of the song comes from the myriad expressions on Madhuri’s porcelain face.

45. Kahe Chedh Chedh Mohe – Devdas

One of the lesser remembered songs of Devdas, this elaborate kathak number features Chandramukhi trying to break the ice with Devdas. MD even recites a few lines making it unforgettable. The opulent setting and the classical tune make this song a piece of art. It was choreographed by Pandit Birju Maharaj. Madhuri wore a forty kilo heavy lehenga. The dance is used in most indian dance competitions across the world.

46. Koyal Si Teri Boli – Beta

Koyal si teri boli from Beta was a popular track. The visuals are less remembered than the audio, but the dancing by MD is agile and graceful in keeping with the soft symphony.

47. Ek baat maan lo tum – Khel

A club number with elaborate costumes, a Western setting and crazy lyrics like Idli doo. Ek baat maan lo tum was like a clone of Hawa
Hawaii from Mr India. Madhuri’s stupendous performance did make this number enjoyable.

48. Le le dil de de dil – 100 Days

Le le dil de de dil featured Madhuri Dixit and Jaaved Jafferi in a full-blooded disco dance. Their costumes were inspired from the
memories of Michael Jackson and their moves were crisp and edgy.

49. Hamari atariya pe – Dedh Ishqiya

Grace was always Madhuri Dixit’s forte and she brought oodles of it to her latest and most memorable performance in Dedh Ishqiya. This nawabi song had an old school charm and similar adaas from MD.

50. Yeh Gathri Taaj Ki Tarah – Gaja Gamini

India’s legendary artiste MF Hussain dedicated an entire feature film to his muse, Madhuri Dixit. One of the songs, Yeh gathri taaj ki tarah featured his numero uno obsession MD! The song featured only Madhuri’s back as she swayed across streets and situations. It was as though Hussain had created a painting on celluloid.

51. Houn Jau Dya - Bucket List

Madhuri Dixit’s signature dance moves and expressions are on ample display in the song Houn Jau Dya from Bucket List. Mandar Cholkar’s lyrics and Shampa Gopikrishna’s choreography perfectly complement the actress’ charm as she twirls at a family gathering.

52. Paisa Yeh Paisa

Madhuri Dixit featured in the mad cap comedy Total Dhamaal and was seen alongside stars like Anil Kapoor, Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi and Javed Jaffrey. Even though the video is packed with such star power, you simply cannot take your eyes off Madhuri during the entire dance number.

53. Tabah Ho Gaye

Tabah Ho Gaye from Kalank seemed like the perfect song for Madhuri Dixit to flaunt her moves and with Saroj Khan pulling the strings on set, you would expect nothing short of extraordinary. The track also played a very important part in the film since it is during this dance number that the back stories of several characters are unfolded. More on: madhuri dixit nene, madhuri dixit songs, madhuri songs

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