Naved Jaffrey tells Sangeeta Yadav that he can’t wait for Boogie Woogie to premier on Sony Entertainment on December 7. Excerpts:
Tell us about Boogie Woogie’s journey so farIJ
We started in 1996 a year after the Sony Entertainment television was launched. During that time there was nothing of that sort on TV and this simple idea gave way to Boogie Woogie. We presented it in front of the channel and they liked it and gave us the green signal. After its successful run of 14 years, we had to stop the show in 2010 due to lack of prime time slot. But Boogie Woogie had become a brand name which aspired many people to make their profession in dancing and choreography. We gave a message to the people that they should not stop dancing as they grow old and that there is a dancer in every person.
What is the importance of the show in your lifeIJ
Being the creator of the show, it holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a part of me. I have been a dancer, choreographer, model, ad filmmaker and even produced Soorma Bhopali. Out of all my work, I enjoyed being the host of Boogie Woogie the most. It’s the first of its kind dance-based reality shows which was made for family viewing. There is absolutely no vulgar element in it.
Are there any changes in the format of the showIJ
There no big changes. Ravi, Javed and I will be mentoring the show as judges while Sargun Mehta and small wonder Amrita Mukherjee will be the hosts. Although there are a few changes in the rounds of the competition. We are looking at dancers who have rhythm are graceful and versatile.
Is there anything that you are looking forward toIJ
I am very excited about the show and am looking forward to the fun times with my brother and best friends — Ravi and Javed are like my soul mates. We have an unbelievable chemistry. Whatever I do, it is from the heart. That’s what my father has taught us — to do things from the heart, be straightforward and down to earth.
There are many dance shows on TV…
There is a dancer in every home and these reality dance shows are just giving them a platform to showcase their talent. Earlier, there was no audience voting but now things have changed and the industry has opened its doors. The dancing standard has gone up as well with the introduction of international choreographers who have introduced different dance forms.
You share a great bond with your father JagdeepIJ
Yes. He is the one who has taught us to live life kingsize. We used to have regular weekend outings with our dad and used to accompany him to his outstation shoots where we would pick up acting tricks.