The first song from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022) is a firecracker! Centred on Alia Bhatt as the titular Gangubai, the song is a lively garba number composed by the filmmaker himself.
Bhansali has a keen ear for music and has crafted hit songs for his films Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013), Bajirao Mastani (2015), and Padmaavat (2018).
Here, the popular Gujarati garba song ‘Dholida’ has been refashioned by Bhansali for a celebratory dance for Gangubai. The dance track has been sung by Janhvi Shrimankar and Shail Hada, while the Hindi and Gujarati lyrics have been written by Kumaar and Bhojak Ashok ‘Anjam’ respectively.
The result is an energetic, catchy composition that is sure to be played at Navratri functions this year. Wonderfully choreographed by Kruti Mahesh, ‘Dholida’ sees Bhatt as Gangubai taking centre stage at a garba performance. The dhol rhythm swells and overwhelms her as she gets lost in the dance, almost forgetting where she is while honouring the goddess Amba.
The dynamic camerawork underscores the beat and follows Bhatt closely. There are several long takes and the surefooted actress never falters.
Produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Jayantilal Gada of Pen Studios, Gangubai Kathiawadi is due to be released theatrically on 25 February.
The period film, which also stars Ajay Devgn, will be premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival next week.
Check out the song below and let us know if you are keen on watching the film.