Vaibhavi Merchant Bags National Film Award Again as Rani Mukerji Records the Moment

Choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant has clinched the National Film Award for Best Choreography at the 71st National Film Awards for her work on the song “Dhindhora Baje Re” from Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. The award ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan turned emotional as actor Rani Mukerji, her longtime friend, was spotted recording this triumphant moment on her phone while Merchant accepted the honour.

A Legacy Reignited

This win marks Vaibhavi Merchant’s second National Award, her first being for the iconic “Dholi Taro Dhol Baaje” from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam back in 1999. That means a span of 25–26 years has passed between her two top dance honours—a long-awaited comeback that underlines her enduring relevance in Bollywood choreography.

What Makes “Dhindhora Baje Re” Special

The dance number is being celebrated not just for its technical complexity but also for its scale, energy, and visual richness. Merchant expressed profound gratitude to filmmaker Karan Johar for his vision in bringing this musical sequence to life. The song’s grand choreography, vibrant ensemble, and cultural ethos resonated with the jury, helping it win top honours in a category that is usually fiercely competitive.

The Moment Captured

As Merchant approached the stage to receive the award from President Droupadi Murmu, Rani Mukerji couldn’t help but record it on her phone—a gesture that added emotional weight to the evening. Their friendship and mutual respect were palpable. It wasn’t just a trophy; for Merchant, this recognition was deeply personal.

Controversy or Catharsis?

While the win is being celebrated across Bollywood, it also stirs debate. Does awarding a choreographer twice, with decades in between, signal that Bollywood still lacks fresh talent to push boundaries? Some argue that while Merchant’s work is undoubtedly exceptional, the industry tends to favour legacy names, leaving younger choreographers struggling for recognition. The 25-year gap between her awards also raises uncomfortable questions about how choreography is judged and rewarded in mainstream cinema.

Are newer names being overlooked in favour of established figures? Or does Merchant’s win simply prove that true talent withstands the test of time? For her admirers, this victory is a strong testament to consistency and craft. For her critics, it highlights Bollywood’s fixation with its veterans at the expense of emerging voices.