Netflix’s Nadaaniyan marked the acting debut of Ibrahim Ali Khan, where he starred opposite Khushi Kapoor as her love interest. However, following the film’s release, social media users criticized the lack of chemistry between the two actors and questioned their acting abilities. Some even went as far as to describe the film as “AI-generated”. While the film did not receive widespread acclaim, Ibrahim’s dance skills did not go unnoticed. Fans praised his performance, and choreographer Vijay Ganguly revealed that while Ibrahim is not a natural dancer, his dedication to mastering choreography sets him apart
Ganguly, who choreographed the festive track Tirkit Dhoom, spoke to a leading publication about Ibrahim’s work ethic. “Ibrahim is not a fantastic dancer but a very hardworking one,” he said. He also noted, “Though he comes from a Nawabi family, he is grounded. Every time he didn’t get a step right, my assistants would go out of our way to make sure he did it well.”
Working with Ibrahim was particularly special for Ganguly, as he has had the opportunity to collaborate with multiple members of the Khan family over the years. He reminisced about his long-standing association, having worked with Amrita Singh in Saaheb (1985), Saif Ali Khan in Chef and Bhoot Police, and Sara Ali Khan in Atrangi Re and Zara Hatke Zara Bachke. Reflecting on his connection with Amrita, he said, “I was a child artiste in the film [Saaheb]. I met her [Amrita Singh] properly during the shoot of Sara’s Zara Hatke Zara Bachke [2023], and she remembered that I had choreographed Sara’s song, Chaka Chak [from Atrangi Re, 2021]. Sara would wake me up in Goa at 4 am to rehearse. She is transparent and has no filters. Sometimes we have to tell her to calm down.”
Ganguly also shared his thoughts on Saif Ali Khan’s growth as a dancer. “Saif has improved over time. He will joke about things [but still] learn his steps,” he added, highlighting the actor’s ability to blend humor with dedication.
