Vaibhavi Merchant Reveals the Key Moment Behind Iconic "Kajra Re" Song

As Bunty Aur Babli marks its 20th anniversary, choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant looked back fondly on the creation of the film’s most iconic song — Kajra Re. The song, featuring Aishwarya Rai, Amitabh Bachchan, and Abhishek Bachchan, became a cultural sensation when it released, and even today, it's regarded as one of Bollywood’s most beloved musical numbers.

In a recent interview, Vaibhavi Merchant revealed that the most impactful moment in the song was when Aishwarya Rai, with a flirtatious spark, turned to Amitabh Bachchan and said, “Aye handsome.” This line, simple yet powerful, added an unforgettable layer of charm and playfulness to the performance, making it stand out among many other item numbers in Bollywood history.

Merchant shared that this moment was not just a scripted line — it encapsulated the boldness and confidence of Aishwarya's character and set the tone for the rest of the song. It created an unexpected and delightful tension, especially because Amitabh and Aishwarya had never shared such a dynamic onscreen before. The chemistry, though playful and brief, left a lasting impression.

She also recalled how Kajra Re came together as a fusion of qawwali and mujra, two traditional Indian music and dance forms. The idea of combining these distinct styles created a fresh and engaging performance that appealed to a wide audience. Choreographing a song that featured both Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan with Aishwarya Rai was a unique challenge, but Merchant embraced it with enthusiasm. The trio's dynamic energy elevated the number, making it more than just a dance performance — it became a theatrical event.

The song, composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and written by the legendary Gulzar, was one of the first to be recorded at the newly built Yash Raj Studios. With vocals by Alisha Chinai, Kajra Re had all the ingredients of a hit: captivating lyrics, a memorable melody, energetic choreography, and star power. Still, Merchant revealed that they hadn’t expected it to become the phenomenon it did. However, both Aditya Chopra and director Shaad Ali were confident in its potential and believed the audience would embrace it.

Vaibhavi Merchant described the environment on set as joyful and collaborative. She praised the professionalism and enthusiasm of the cast, especially Aishwarya Rai, who brought grace and fire to the dance floor. The behind-the-scenes camaraderie helped create a relaxed yet focused atmosphere, allowing creativity to flourish. It was a shoot filled with laughter, music, and a shared sense of being part of something special.

Today, Kajra Re continues to be a favorite at weddings, parties, and stage performances. Its choreography, music, and style remain timeless. Vaibhavi Merchant's reflections give fans a deeper appreciation for the artistry and thought that went into crafting such a memorable number.

The flirtatious “Aye handsome” may have been a small moment on screen, but as Merchant emphasized, it became the heartbeat of a song that danced its way into Bollywood history.