'Age doesn't define...,' says Malaika Arora as she opens up on how item numbers have evolved ever since she started out: 'It's less about being provocative'

Malaika Arora, known for her iconic dance numbers like ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’, ‘Munni Badnaam Hui’, ‘Anarkali Disco Chali’, ‘Pandey Ji Seeti’, ‘Hello Hello’, and ‘Aap Jaisa Koi’, recently opened up about how such songs, often called item numbers — have changed over the years.

She recently made her comeback with a song in 'Thamma' alongside Rashmika Mandanna and got a lot of love for it. In a recent interview Malaika has opened up on the evolution of item numbers, since the time she started it in the 90s. Malaika said these special songs have evolved a lot since she began her career. “Earlier, they were mostly about glamour and spectacle, often detached from a woman’s individuality. Today, filmmakers are more conscious… they integrate these numbers into stories with stronger character context.

It’s less about being provocative and more about performance and presence. I see it as an evolution where women can own their space," said Malaika in a chat with The Hollywood Reporter India.

She acknowledged that ‘item songs’ have often been associated with the male gaze but said she views them differently. “Yes, item songs have often been linked to the male gaze, but I’ve always looked at them differently,” she said, adding, “For me, dance is about confidence and expression.

When I perform, I focus on enjoying the moment and bringing my own energy to it. As long as I feel comfortable and in control, that’s what matters most.

It’s about celebrating the art and having fun with it rather than overthinking the labels.”Talking about continuing to do such songs, Malaika shared, “After all these years, returning to dance numbers feels like embracing a part of my identity, but now I do it with much more confidence and experience.”She also added, “Personally, it’s about celebrating my journey and showing that you can stay relevant and passionate at any stage. Professionally, it’s a chance to evolve and reinvent myself, proving that age doesn’t define your capacity to perform or inspire.”