Katrina Kaif is now regarded as one of Bollywood’s most popular dance performers but the actress once faced harsh criticism over her dancing skills.

Choreographer Bosco Martis recently recalled an incident from Katrina’s early career during a podcast featuring Bosco and Caesar. According to Bosco, another choreographer had criticized Katrina’s dancing and allegedly told her that she was “zero” at dancing and should leave the field.

The criticism may have motivated Katrina to work harder and prove herself, Bosco suggested. Farah Khan, who was also part of the discussion, expressed surprise at the story and said Katrina could not have been completely inexperienced. In her view, the actress may have been around a “four or five” at the time.

Farah Khan identified “Sheila Ki Javan” from the film Tees Maar Khan as a major turning point in Katrina’s development as a dancer. She said Katrina’s performance in the song demonstrated a significant improvement, taking her skills to what she described as a “nine or ten.”

Bosco also described “Sheila Ki Jawani” as a game-changing moment in Katrina’s career. The actress subsequently became known for her performances in hit songs including “Chikni Chameli” and “Kala Chashma.”

Farah also recalled choreographing Katrina in the song “Just Chill” from Why did you love me?when the actress was still establishing herself as a dancer.

Katrina has previously spoken about the criticism she received over her dancing. She reportedly reached a point where she began to believe that she might never become a good dancer. Bosco, however, encouraged her and told her that she could dance but needed to continue working on herself.

That encouragement reportedly played an important role in changing Katrina’s approach toward dancing and motivated her to improve.

Bosco and Caesar later choreographed Katrina for “Touch Me” from Race. She went on to deliver memorable performances in songs such as “Kamli,” “Swag Se Swagat,” “Afghan Jalebi” and “Nachde Ne Saare.”

Her journey from being criticized as a weak dancer to becoming one of Bollywood’s most recognizable dance performers has become an example of persistence and hard work.

Katrina was last seen in the 2024 film Merry Christmas alongside Vijay Sethupathi. She has since remained away from the big screen while focusing on motherhood and family.

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