When global pop icon Shakira collaborated with Bollywood choreographic brilliance nearly two decades ago, it created one of the most unforgettable cross-cultural performances in music history.
Behind the iconic Hips Don’t Lie stage performance lies the creative touch of celebrated Indian choreographer Farah Khan, who infused the global hit with a distinct Bollywood aesthetic.
The Bollywood Touch to a Global Hit
Farah Khan, known for redefining mainstream dance choreography in Hindi cinema, has crafted over 100 memorable song sequences across Indian films. Her energetic hook steps and grand visual storytelling have become staples of pop culture celebrations.
Her collaboration with Shakira became widely discussed after Farah revealed details during an appearance on The Kapil Sharma Show. She shared that she was invited to New York to choreograph the performance because Shakira wanted to present the song in a Bollywood-inspired style.
“I was called to New York because she wanted to perform the song in Bollywood style. So I went there and choreographed Hips Don’t Lie for her,” Farah said.
The performance took place at the MTV Video Music Awards 2006, where Shakira appeared in a pink Indian-inspired costume, accompanied by dancers styled in traditional attire. The visual presentation blended Latin pop energy with semiclassical Indian dance movements, creating a historic crossover moment.
The Pressure, the Rehearsals and the ‘Goddess Step’
In a separate interview with BBC, Farah described the pressure surrounding the performance. Shakira was already recognised as one of the world’s most skilled dancers, raising expectations for flawless execution.
Reports suggest that Shakira arrived in New York after performing in Canada and rehearsed intensively with Farah for several hours. Despite limited preparation time, they refined the choreography to perfection.
One of the standout additions was the famous “Goddess Step” — a formation where the lead performer stands at the forefront while backup dancers extend their arms behind her, creating a powerful visual reminiscent of traditional Indian deity imagery.
Shakira reportedly requested that the choreography incorporate authentic semiclassical Indian movements and traditional gestures, reinforcing the fusion concept.
Shakira Returns to India After Nearly Two Decades
Nearly 20 years after her last major performance in India, Shakira is preparing for a highly anticipated return.
The Grammy-winning artist, known for global chartbusters like Hips Don’t Lie, Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) and Whenever, Wherever, will perform in Mumbai and Delhi this April.
Her Mumbai concert is scheduled at Mahalaxmi Racecourse Stadium, followed by a show at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
The concerts are promoted under the Feeding India Concert series with District by Zomato handling ticketing.
Could the Collaboration Happen Again?
Fans are now speculating whether Farah Khan might once again choreograph Shakira — perhaps this time for a full Bollywood track.
While nothing has been confirmed, the legacy of their earlier collaboration remains a benchmark for cross-cultural creativity in global pop performances.
