The interest of Kannada heroines to appear in item numbers is getting higher by the day. Taking inspiration from Bollywood heroines like Vidya Balan, Katrina Kaif and Chitrangada Das, Sandalwood actresses are also making their moves towards item songs.
Actress Pooja Gandhi after a doing a film like 'Dandupalaya', is now 'Chanchal Champakali' in a peppy number in the film, Directors Special.
“I accepted this offer because Guruprasad had penned down the lyrics of the song only for me,” says Pooja.
Ragini Dwivedi is also showing interest to appear in item numbers with her upcoming sensational number in the film 'Lakshmi', which stars Shivarajkumar and Priyamani.
“I have agreed to do the item number, but I am yet to listen to the song to take a decision," she explains.
Ragini had a rewarding appearance in the film 'Kalla Malla Sulla'.
If all goes well, the actress will be making her moves for the lyrics Pussycat Pussycat written by Kaviraj.
With the recent craze for item numbers among the audience, is there a funda to become popular by dancing in item songs? “I feel really obliged, when people want to see me in such songs. I just consider it a peppy number, which I can consider while dancing at award functions. How long can you be dancing to the same old songs," adds Ragini, who doesn't consider item songs degrading.
“Special numbers are a hot new trend and I feel special when producers feel that my presence in one song will boost the film,” Ragini adds.
Pooja considers item numbers is one of the varieties she has to offer.
“After having played a serious character like Lakshmi in 'Dandupalya', I considered being part of this song to give variety to my audience. That doesn’t mean that I will be ready to dance in every item song. Only if the song is necessary and if the directors feel that having me can add something special to the movie, only then I will take it up,” she explains.
Choreographer Imran Sardaria who is choreographing Pooja in 'Directors Special' says, “Director Guruprasad was looking for a very established protagonist to do a special song in his film.
I suggested Pooja's name and he asked me to check with her. When I approached Pooja, who is my friend, she told me that she can’t be dancing to any item song. I told her that director had written the song keep her in mind and I would be choreographing the song. Only later she accepted to be part of it,” explains Imran.
This item number will see the magic of cinematographer Venu.
"Forget the Munnis and Chikni Chamelis. Chanchal Champakali will see Pooja setting the screen on fire with her item number," he adds.
As Ragini is geared up to shoot for the special song, the choreographer is yet to be finalised for her special song in Lakhsmi.
"They are looking for an excellent choreographer who is really good in expressing his ideas and can use fantastic movements for this song. The makers of the film will decide soon," she signs off.
