The Controversial Dance Sequence
Weeks after the release of Chand Mera Dil, one particular dance number featuring Ananya Panday is still making waves on social media. The film, which hit theatres on May 22, 2026, stars Ananya alongside Lakshya and is produced by Dharma Productions. The sequence, intended to showcase her character Chandni’s rebellious spirit during a college cultural event, blends classical Bharatanatyam with contemporary moves. But instead of applause, it has drawn sharp criticism from classical dance purists and meme-makers alike.
Many felt the performance didn’t do justice to the traditional dance form. Social media is flooded with reactions — some debating its execution, others just trolling. But the film’s team is standing by the creative choice.
Charu Shankar Breaks Her Silence
Now, actor Charu Shankar, who plays Ananya’s on-screen mother in the film, has stepped in to defend the actress. In a chat with the press, Shankar made it clear that while everyone has a right to their opinion, the tone of the online backlash crossed a line. “I think everyone is entitled to their opinion, but trolling is never in good taste. Conversations around art are valid. Mockery is not,” she said.
She also explained that the sequence was never meant to be a textbook classical dance recital. “The sequence being discussed was always conceived as a contemporary, edgy breakout introduction for Chandni’s character. In the film’s visual storytelling, this moment announces the arrival of a young woman who is not afraid to break the rules,” she added. Her words echo the sentiment that art should allow room for experimentation, especially in a film narrative.
Chunky Panday Also Weighs In
Ananya’s father, actor Chunky Panday, had earlier come to her defense as well. In an interview with ETimes, he clarified that the performance was a fusion piece, typical of what college students create for cultural events. “It was a fusion performance, the kind of experimental dance you often see college students perform at social or cultural events,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ananya herself has stayed quiet on the matter. The film, however, is still running in theatres with promotional discounts including Buy One Get One Free offers and tickets at just Rs 99. Whether the controversy will boost or hurt its box office run remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the debate around artistic interpretation isn’t dying down anytime soon.