Monday morning saw social media abuzz with Ananya Panday and Lakshya’s new film Chand Mera Dil, but not for the plot or the actors’ performances. Clips of Ananya performing what is a fusion Bharatanatyam choreography in two key sequences drew sharp criticism online, with many alleging that the choreography disrespected the classical dance form. Dr Sonal Mansingh, Ananya Panday Meanwhile, Ananya, director Vivek Soni, producer Karan Johar, choreographer Tejaswi Shetty, and sequence choreographer Ananyaa Kurup did not respond to us till the time of this article going live. HT City asked Bharatanatyam exponents and dancers about whether the criticism over the dance is valid. Dr Sonal Mansingh, Padma Vibhushan “This latest film clip of Ananya’s so-called Bharatanatyam is a timely reminder for movie makers, actors, and musicians: learn to respect our traditions. Don’t dabble in anything you don’t know or learn. I’ve seen Hollywood movies where talented, well-known dancers are used for ballet; they don’t ask actors to jump around. I object to the lack of respect (in Bollywood). I am hurt as a Bharatanatyam …