The Indian film industry, an integral cultural pillar, has once again captivated global audiences with its enthralling music and dance numbers in 2023. Setting trends and igniting the passion for dance across nations, Bollywood’s hook steps from various chart-topping songs have dominated social media platforms and carved out a special niche in the hearts of fans worldwide. Reflective of the year’s cinematic exuberance, here are the top five hook steps that defined the zeitgeist of 2023.
The resurgence of Bollywood was evident as cinemas and digital streaming platforms saw a significant uptick in viewership. From soul-stirring ballads to high-energy anthems, the year-end roundup features five songs that not only conquered music charts but also inspired viral dance fever.
At the forefront of this phenomenon was the title track ‘Jhoome Jo Pathaan’ from one of the year’s standout films, ‘Pathaan’. Mesmerizing audiences with its rhythmic beats, the song featured a hook step that swiftly turned into a cultural phenomenon. Coupled with megastar Shah Rukh Khan’s enchanting persona, the dance move swept across the nation, making ‘Jhoome Jo Pathaan’ a ubiquitous presence at parties and social gatherings.
Next, the formidable duo Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt captivated fans in ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’ with the infectious ‘What Jhumka’. Amidst a backdrop of vintage Bollywood romance, the catchy melody and its signature hook step became an online sensation. As fans emulated the exuberant choreography, ‘What Jhumka’ videos proliferated across social platforms, showcasing the widespread adoration for the dance step.
‘Pippa’ presented another remarkable entry with ‘Main Parwaana’. A throwback to the ’70s aesthetics, this song, fronted by the agile Ishaan Khatter, introduced one of the year’s most challenging choreographies. Beyond its tune, the song’s hook steps garnered immense popularity, inspiring 83,000 recreations as dancers strived to capture its essence.
Adding to the year’s vibrant dance tapestry was ‘Show Me the Thumka’ from ‘Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar’. Featuring heartthrobs Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor, the dance number included a series of thumkas – traditional hip-shaking steps – that captured the imagination of worldwide fans. The universal appeal of the song’s hook step made the thumkas a staple in social media feeds, as eager fans executed the steps with gusto.
Rounding off the list is ‘Jamal Kudu’ from ‘Animal’, marking the re-emergence of actor Bobby Deol. Enrapturing listeners with its exotic Persian lyrics, the song catapulted to fame, partly due to its unique hook step involving Bobby Deol’s poised dance with a glass perched atop his head. Replicated in countless social media videos, ‘Jamal Kudu’ set a new benchmark for viral dance trends.
The resounding success of these songs with their compelling hook steps underscores the power of Bollywood’s dynamic synergy between music and film. As 2023 drew to a close, there is a sense that Bollywood, along with its legion of followers, has rediscovered its rhythm, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural canvas and spotlighting the joyous spirit of Indian cinema.
