Katrina Kaif’s performance in the song Kamli from Dhoom 3 remains one of the most talked-about dance numbers in Hindi cinema. Over the years, fans have debated whether the actor performed the routine herself or relied on a body double. Now, choreographer Shakti Mohan has addressed the speculation.
Shakti, who assisted choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant on Kamli, recently shared that Katrina Kaif executed all the dance portions on her own. Speaking to Filmygyan, she recalled the preparation that went into the performance.
“Katrina had to perform the song solo, and they needed someone to teach her the choreography. We rehearsed for nearly one-and-a-half months,” she said.
“She Didn’t Want to Give Up”
Shakti described the experience as intense and demanding. She explained that while there was a body double brought in from France for specific stunt sequences, Katrina insisted on performing the core dance routine herself.
“This was a crazy experience for me. When Katrina entered, there was so much pressure — everyone felt they had to match her energy. Despite me being a professional dancer, the expectation was huge. But Katrina was determined. She would perform all the steps back-to-back. Only for certain stunts was a body double used,” Shakti said.
According to the choreographer, Katrina pushed herself physically during rehearsals and shooting. “There were several portions where a double could have stepped in, but she chose to do it herself,” she added.
Recalling one particularly challenging move involving a deep back arch, Shakti revealed that Katrina continued rehearsing despite sustaining bruises.
“She had bruises all over her body, but she didn’t give up. She is extremely hardworking,” she said.
About Dhoom 3
Released in 2013, Dhoom 3 went on to become one of the highest-grossing Hindi films at the time. Directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya, the action thriller featured Aamir Khan in a dual role alongside Katrina Kaif, Abhishek Bachchan, Uday Chopra, and Jackie Shroff.
The film reportedly earned over Rs 500 crore globally and crossed the Rs 100 crore mark within days of its release. Among its highlights, Kamli stood out for its intricate choreography and Katrina Kaif’s high-energy performance, which continues to be celebrated years later.
