Malaika Arora has always been one of Bollywood’s most popular dancers. From Chaiyya Chaiyya to Munni Badnaam Hui, she has delivered some of the most iconic performances in Hindi cinema. Over the years, item numbers have sparked debates. Some call them unnecessary, while others accuse them of promoting vulgarity. Now, Malaika has shared her honest thoughts on the topic.
In a recent chat with The Hollywood Reporter, Malaika spoke about how item songs have changed over time. She said dance numbers have come a “long way” since she started her career. What was once all about glamour and showmanship now feels more meaningful and empowering.
Here’s What Malaika Arora Said
She explained, “Earlier, they were mostly about glamour and spectacle, often detached from a woman’s individuality. Today, filmmakers are more conscious… they integrate these numbers into stories with stronger character context. It’s less about being provocative and more about performance and presence. I see it as an evolution where women can own their space.”
Malaika also admitted that item songs have often been linked to the male gaze. But she said her view has always been different. She said, “Yes, item songs have often been linked to the male gaze, but I’ve always looked at them differently. For me, dance is about confidence and expression. When I perform, I focus on enjoying the moment and bringing my own energy to it. As long as I feel comfortable and in control, that’s what matters most. It’s about celebrating the art and having fun with it rather than overthinking the labels.”
For Malaika, it’s not about what others think. It’s about how she feels when she performs. She believes dance is an art form that should come from joy, confidence and control.
Malaika On Her Item Number ‘Poison Baby’
Malaika recently made her comeback with a special number called Poison Baby in Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna’s latest film Thamma. Talking about it, she said the song was a celebration of her journey in Bollywood. It also showed that passion and performance have no age limits. She said it was about “showing that you can stay relevant and passionate at any stage” and that “age doesn’t define your capacity to perform or inspire.”
Over the years, Malaika has set a benchmark for dance numbers in Bollywood. Her songs like Gur Naal Ishq Mitha, Munni Badnaam Hui, and Chaiyya Chaiyya are still remembered.
She currently appears as a judge on India’s Got Talent along with Shaan and Navjot Singh Sidhu.
