'It's essential to have a good hold on classical dance' - Farah Khan

Farah Khan, the new Grand Master of Zee TV's DID L'il Masters is upbeat about the new job in hand, and also talks about her personal likings when it comes to dance.

What was the principal reason for you to accept judging DID L'il Masters?
The first reason is that Dance India Dance is a big brand and it has given the industry some great talents in the last two seasons.  This is a reality show for kids and I feel I am now equipped to take up this job. If this show had come to me say, two years earlier, that is even before my kids were born, I would not have taken it. 

What according to you is the biggest challenge for you as judge?
The ability with which we handle children, the extent to which we can talk openly with them, and above all, the manner in which we guide and handle their parents are the main things to look forward to. 

Don't you think that reality shows put lot of pressure on the minds of children?
It will be a pressure situation for them, only if we make the environment like that. L'il Masters is beginning during the summer vacation of kids, so they will not be having the added pressure of missing school. This experience will be like a workshop for them where they can learn various things related to dancing. 

Mithun, Remo, Geeta and Terrence have been the face of DID. How different will you be when compared to them?
I can't say this now; viewers will have to give their take on this after the show begins.

Which kind of dance form you loved to dance on when you were young?
I would dance on all the popular filmy numbers; I loved to dance on Helen number and those who came to my place were forced to see that.

Has choreography taken a back seat, now that you are a Producer?
It's not like that. I was initially busy in the making of my first movie Om Shanti Om. Later, I delivered my kids, and now I am busy with Tees Maar Khan. However, I have recently managed to steal time and choreograph for the movie Housefull. 

Do you have plans to rope in fresh young talents from this show for your upcoming movies?
Yes I would definitely take them. Recently I have offered Shakti a promotion song in my movie.

How is your rapport with Sandip Soparrkar ?
I know him since Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa days.  He was the Technical choreographer then; he is a really nice guy and we get along very well.

Which are the reality shows you really enjoyed being part of?
Indian Idol 1 and Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar were good. I did not enjoy much being part of Indian Idol 2.  Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa was a good experience, Nach Baliye was also good. But the best till date has been Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega.

There are many dance forms introduced nowadays, what's your take on it?
It's a very good thing but the kids should have a good hold on classical dancing. I would first send my children to learn classical dancing, have a good foundation there, and then learn any other form of dancing.

Lastly your personal favorite dance form?
I like the dance duets. I love these lifts when it comes to dance.

Reporter and Author: Ranjini Nair