Vijay Ganguly wins National Award for 'Aaj Ki Raat'; Rupali Ganguly calls Tamannaah 'a star'
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Choreographer Vijay Ganguly has won the National Film Award for Best Choreography for the song 'Aaj Ki Raat' from the blockbuster film 'Stree 2', prompting his sister and television star Rupali Ganguly to pen a deeply emotional tribute on social media. Rupali also singled out actress Tamannaah Bhatia, calling her 'the star who made this song what it is.'
Rupali Ganguly's Emotional Tribute
Sharing a heartfelt post on her social media account, Rupali wrote: 'From being a National award winning director's daughter to being a National award winning choreographer's sister — I am the proudest.' She described the recognition as long overdue, recalling how their late mother had repeatedly predicted the win. 'Mummy kept saying you will win the National award for Aaj Ki Raat and she absolutely manifested it,' she wrote.
The actress went on to acknowledge the personal struggles behind the achievement. 'I have seen how you have struggled, how many times you have gone without, the setbacks and disappointments you have faced — but your smile has always been intact,' she added. She also invoked their father's guiding philosophy: 'Head firmly on your shoulders, Be honest and Humble, Value your work, Put in your best se bhi better effort.'
Gratitude to the 'Stree 2' Team
Rupali extended her thanks to producer Dinesh Vijan and production house Maddock Films, as well as director Amar Kaushik, for backing Vijay. She also acknowledged actor Rajkummar Rao for his consistent support and encouragement toward the choreographer.
Choreographer Abhishek Pai and the ensemble of dancers who performed in freezing conditions during the night shoot also received a special mention. 'To all the fabulous dancers in the song who shot in freezing peak winter night — thank you,' Rupali wrote.
Why 'Aaj Ki Raat' Became a Cultural Phenomenon
Featuring Tamannaah Bhatia in a glamorous avatar alongside Rajkummar Rao, 'Aaj Ki Raat' became one of the most viral songs of the year upon its release. Its hook step triggered countless dance reels and celebrity recreations across social media platforms, cementing the track's status well beyond the film's theatrical run.
Notably, 'Stree 2' itself was one of the biggest commercial successes of its release year, giving the song an enormous platform from which to break into mainstream culture.
Vijay Ganguly's Career in Bollywood
Over the years, Vijay Ganguly has built a substantial body of work in Hindi cinema. His choreography credits include popular films such as 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani', 'Bhediya', 'JugJugg Jeeyo', and 'Govinda Naam Mera', among several other successful projects. The National Award marks the most prestigious recognition of his career to date.
With the award now confirmed, all eyes will be on what Vijay Ganguly brings to the screen next — and whether 'Aaj Ki Raat' sets a new benchmark for choreography-led viral moments in Indian cinema.