International Dance Day 2024: From Deepika Padukone to Sushant Singh Rajput, a look at Bollywood celebs who worked as background dancers

From left, Deepka Padukone, Shahid Kapoor, Sushant Singh Rajput

The world of Bollywood is not just a destination for dreamers; it's a place where countless tales of perseverance and humble beginnings unfold. It's not uncommon to find that many of the industry's biggest stars started their journey not in the limelight, but in the backdrop as background dancers. Here's a look at some of the celebrated names who started their careers on the fringes before stepping into the spotlight:

Shahid Kapoor

Known today for his versatile acting in films like "Jab We Met" and "Haider," Shahid Kapoor's journey in Bollywood began as a background dancer in films like 'Taal' and "Dil To Pagal Hai." His charming presence as a ‘Complan Boy’ in commercials also marked his early days in the entertainment industry.

Sushant Singh Rajput

This late actor's illustrious career, marked by performances in 'M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story,' began with him honing his craft at Shiamak Davar's Dance Academy. He was part of the dance troupe in 'Dhoom 2,' showcasing his talent behind the lead stars before making it big.

Arshad Warsi

Before he made the audiences laugh with him for his comic timing in 'Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.,' Arshad Warsi was a choreographer and a background dancer. He was seen as a background dancer in songs like "Help Me" from 'Aag Se Khelenge,' a testament to his diverse talents in the entertainment world.

Deepika Padukone

One of the top actresses in Bollywood now, Deepika started with modelling and ad stints, and not many know about her appearance in music videos like Himesh Reshammiya's 'Naam Hai Tera Tera' before she hit the silver screen with 'Om Shanti Om.'

Daisy Shah

Before sharing screen space with Salman Khan as a lead actress, Daisy Shah was seen as a background dancer. She notably appeared in the song 'Lagan Lagi' from 'Tere Naam,' a film that also contributed significantly to Salman's acting career.

Dia Mirza

The beauty queen turned actor, Dia Mirza, also started as a background dancer in a Tamil film, 'En Swasa Kaatre,' appearing in the 'Jhumbalaka." Her graceful moves paved the way for her eventual rise in the film industry.