Chand Mera Dil actress Charu Shankar DEFENDS Ananya Panday amid backlash over Bharatanatyam sequence: “Trolling is never in good taste”
The dance sequence from Chand Mera Dil featuring Ananya Panday continues to spark discussion online weeks after the film’s release. While the scene has drawn criticism from a section of social media users and classical dance enthusiasts, actor Charu Shankar, who plays Ananya’s mother in the film, has now shared her views on the ongoing backlash.
Released on May 22, 2026, Chand Mera Dil stars Ananya Panday and Lakshya in the lead roles and is directed by Vivek Soni. Produced by Dharma Productions, the romantic drama has remained in the spotlight not only for its box office performance but also for a dance sequence that generated widespread debate online.
In the film, Ananya essays the role of Chandni, a college student who comes from a family deeply connected to classical dance traditions. During a college cultural event, her character performs a dance routine that blends traditional and contemporary elements. After clips from the sequence surfaced online, many users criticized the performance, with some questioning its execution and others turning it into a subject of memes.
Addressing the reactions, Charu Shankar spoke to Hindustan Times and stressed the importance of maintaining a respectful conversation around artistic expression. “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.
The actor also clarified the creative intention behind the scene and explained that the sequence was never designed as a conventional classical dance performance. “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,” Charu added.
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Her comments echo those of Ananya Panday’s father, actor Chunky Panday, who recently defended the sequence during an interview with ETimes. Responding to the criticism, Chunky stated that audiences had misunderstood the purpose of the performance. “It was a fusion performance, the kind of experimental dance you often see college students perform at social or cultural events,” he said.
So far, Ananya Panday has not publicly responded to the criticism surrounding the sequence. However, the discussion has continued to gain traction online, with opinions divided between those who viewed the performance as a creative interpretation and those who felt it did not adequately represent classical dance traditions.
Meanwhile, Chand Mera Dil continues its theatrical run. In an effort to attract audiences, the makers have introduced promotional offers on multiple occasions, including Buy One Get One Free deals and tickets priced at Rs 99.
The post Chand Mera Dil actress Charu Shankar DEFENDS Ananya Panday amid backlash over Bharatanatyam sequence: “Trolling is never in good taste” appeared first on Bollywood Hungama.
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